The aetiology of childhood autism: a criticism of the Tinbergen's ethological theory

Abstract

Kanner's descriptions of the children showing the abnormal behaviour pattern he observed and named "early infantile autism" are summarized. E.A. and N. Tinbergen's ethological theory of the aetiology of this syndrome is outlined and criticized. The major problem in evaluating this theory, apart from the absence of any evidence in its favour, is the lack of precision with which the Tinbergens use the terms "autism" and "Kanner's syndrome".