Abstract
This commentary addresses two distinct aspects of autism spectrum condition. First, it critiques the proposed link between fetal testosterone levels and the emergence of autistic traits, arguing that such theories are reductive and risk overshadowing the profound heterogeneity and individuality of autistic people. The author suggests a more limited, theoretical connection between testosterone-driven neural development and a higher incidence of STEM savant skills in some autistic individuals. Second, the paper proposes an ethological perspective, inspired by Konrad Lorenz's work on learning and feedback, to interpret repetitive behaviors not as mere stereotypes but as purposeful actions providing essential positive feedback to the individual. The overarching theme is a plea for a nuanced, individual-centric approach to understanding autism that prioritizes personal experience over reductive biological determinism.
Keywords
Autism spectrum disorder, Testosterone, Savant syndrome, STEM, Repetitive behavior, Ethology, Individual differences, Simon Baron-Cohen, Konrad Lorenz