The French government wants to develop a number of areas of research as part of its third national plan on autism.
The plan, published on 2 May, says in particular that, given the complexities of the condition, it is becoming more and more important to take an interdisciplinary approach to research. While there is a demand for autism research to be recognised in its own right, it should also be better integrated into neuroscience, cognitive science and social science, it says.
Four priorities for autism research are set out in the plan. These are: research on the genetic and physiological causes of autism; strengthening diagnostics; ensuring that treatments are based on scientific evidence; and focusing on social inclusion.