Project
The effect of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS)
on imitation ability; implications for individuals with Autism.
Research consistently demonstrates that imitation ability is impaired
in individuals with Autism and it is suggested that this deficit is the
result of an ineffective mirror-neuron system. As EEG oscillations over
the sensorimotor cortex in the mu frequency (8-13Hz) are believed to reflect
mirror-neuron activity, it is possible that influencing the activity in
this frequency using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation may
have functional benefits for individuals with Autism.
My project will investigate first, whether it is possible to increae the
power of mu activity in the sensorimotor cortex using individualised rTMS,
and second, whether such an increase in mu power leads to greater task
related desynchronisation and better imitation, a core deficit in individuals
with Autism.
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Additional Research Interests
I am interested in the way people and cultures differ in how they process
adverse life events. I am also interested in the therapeutic relationship
between mental health services and consumers. In particular, I am interested
in how consumers can contribute to the provision of services, in terms
of planning and management. In addition to my research, I work at Life
Without Barriers as a psychosocial rehabilitation support worker, working
with individuals living in the community with mental illness.
I am also interested in the developmental neuroscience of Autism as well
as having a broad interest in social psychology; specifically in relation
to cultural differences in the processing of adverse life events. |
