Autism is a condition that severely limits the functioning of many individuals. The definition of autism used by the Autism Society of America describes it as: "a life-long brain disorder that prevents proper understanding of what a person sees, hears and otherwise senses. It causes severe problems in learning, communication and behavior. Nothing psychological has been shown to cause autism." Autism Research Review International [Rimland, 1991] lists 47 treatment approaches to autism. Suggested biological and neurological causes of autism include: an imbalance in the neurotransmitter system, anatomical malformations in the cerebellum, unusual brain activity, etc. The treatment methods cited in the report include, among others: megavitamin therapy using vitamin B6 and magnesium [Rimland, 1978, 1987], methods aimed at balancing opiates [Recasens, 1990], drugs [Ritvo, 1986], and Upledgerís craniosacral techniques [Upledger, 1983]. Although these approaches have produced positive results with certain individuals, none has been recognized as having universal application.
If there is a fundamental cause of autism, it has not been addressed by any of the currently practised treatment modalities. The checklists used to diagnose autism, such as the DSM II criteria and Rimland's checklist [Rimland, 1980], are complex. Moreover, symptoms of autism such as severe problems with interpersonal communication and social skills are identifiable but not readily quantifiable. For these reasons, methods that can precisely measure the "degree" of autistic characteristics in an individual have not been developed, and the efficacy of the treatment strategies in use cannot be accurately assessed. This paper will report on the author's 20 years of study in this area, including experimental clinical work with approximately one hundred children. A presentation of the practical treatment modalities that were applied, clinical observations, and literature research will be given to support the author's hypothesis that the problems of autism stem from the malfunctioning of the pineal gland. Ten children have been treated with exogenous melatonin in conjunction with bodywork techniques. Some of the results will be discussed. The treatment approaches aim at restoring the functioning of the pineal gland and the bioenergetic and biochemical balance in the body.
This paper will bring together the points of view of scientific researchers, clinical workers, and bioenergy workers