Hannah Devlin

Number of girls and women with the condition in UK may be vastly underestimated, leading neuroscientist says

Hundreds of thousands of girls and women with autism are going undiagnosed due to it being viewed as a “male condition”, according to one of the UK’s leading neuroscientists.

Simon Baron-Cohen

There are fears genetics research into autism will lead to eugenics and eradication of the condition. That must never come to pass, says Simon Baron-Cohen

Genetics plays a large role in causing autism, so knowing more about which genes influence it could allow a better understanding of the condition.

Femmianne Bredewold, Margot Hermus, Margo Trappenburg

William Mandy

Tony had lived on the streets for 45 years, and in recent years had become increasingly physically unwell. Despite this he refused all offers of help, and it became clear to his support workers that he found social engagement of any kind very distressing. It was only when it was recognised that he had autism that staff were able to adapt their approach to support him to move off the streets into a hostel.

The story that Hans Asperger saved autistic children from the Nazis is exposed as a myth in Edith Sheffer’s new biography

Saskia Baron

Rachel Moseley, Bournemouth University and Julie Kirkby, Bournemouth University

Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett’s article on access for autistic individuals recognised that “autism friendly” sessions are not necessarily a solution, and carry their own dangers (Guess what – people with autism like the cinema too, 2 May).

Many conferences on autism now have modifications such as quiet withdrawal spaces, reduced lighting and “deaf clapping” (silent waving). It is reasonable to meet the needs of known autistic individuals attending an event but not to assume all “autistic” needs are common.

The British Film Institute has apologised after a woman with Asperger's syndrome was "forcibly dragged out of" their London cinema for "laughing too much".

Key points:

• Tamsin Parker shouted "I'm sorry I have Asperger's" as security staff removed her
• Some audience members applauded, while some protested, with many walking out
• BFI apologised and said it was investigating the incident

Rebecca Wood, University of Birmingham

It’s not hard to find representations in films or on the television of fictional autistic people with poor social skills and who struggle to form relationships.