A systems level analysis of the mirror neuron hypothesis and imitation impairments in autism spectrum disorders

▶ Imitation deficits in autism have been attributed to mirror neuron dysfunction. ▶ We must consider the component skills of imitation and how they function as a unit. ▶ Attention, self-other matching, goals, and familiarity may be vital in imitation. ▶ Underconnectivity of MNS and other areas may better explain this deficit in autism.