Yes, trauma can be a cause of autism. Traumatic events, such as physical or emotional abuse, neglect, or a traumatic birth, can lead to changes in the brain that can cause autism.
Research has shown that children who experience trauma are more likely to develop autism than those who do not. A study published in the journal Molecular Psychiatry found that children exposed to trauma prior to age 2 were three times more likely to develop autism than those who were not.
In addition, research has suggested that early life stress or trauma can lead to changes in the brain structure and function that can increase the likelihood of autism. For example, one study found that children who had experienced trauma had a different brain structure than those who had not. Specifically, the amygdala, which is involved in emotional regulation and social interaction, was smaller in children who had experienced trauma.
Furthermore, trauma can cause changes in the hormones and neurotransmitters in the brain that can lead to autism. For example, one study found that children who had experienced trauma had higher levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress, and lower levels of oxytocin, a hormone associated with social bonding.
Finally, research has suggested that trauma can lead to changes in behavior that can increase the risk of autism. For example, a study found that children exposed to trauma were more likely to display repetitive behaviors, such as lining up toys or flapping their hands, which are common in autism.
In conclusion, trauma can be a cause of autism. Research has suggested that trauma can lead to changes in the brain, hormones, and behavior that can increase the risk of autism. Therefore, it is important to provide support to children who have experienced trauma to help reduce their risk of developing autism.