Are there multiple subtypes of autism, and how vivid are your memories?

Are there multiple subtypes of autism, and how vivid are your memories?

Author: BBC Radio 4 October 28, 2025 Duration: 29:55
All in the Mind
HealthHealth & FitnessFitnessScience

Autism tends to be viewed as a spectrum, but a new study published this month in Nature suggests that there are both genetic and behavioural differences between early and later diagnosed autism. So is autism still a spectrum, or should we be thinking of it as having multiple different subtypes? Claudia Hammond talks to Professor Uta Frith, who has pioneered autism research for decades, about what this means for how we view autism now.

The universities of Cambridge and Durham are launching a study to help them unlock the secrets of vivid memory. Postdoctoral researchers Kasia Mojescik and Martha McGill tell Claudia how they plan to find out what makes a memory vivid, why some memories are more vivid than others, and how people can get involved in their work.

And Claudia is joined in the studio by Catherine Loveday, Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience at the University of Westminster. Catherine brings us new research on how state-level income inequality can impact how children’s brains develop, and the myriad ways music can affect dining experiences.

If you'd like to take part in the vivid memories research survey, you can find it here: https://www.english.cam.ac.uk/research/memory/get-involved/

Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Sophie Ormiston Editor: Ilan Goodman Studio Manager: Donald MacDonald Production coordinator: Jana Holesworth


Ever wondered why we do the things we do, or how our thoughts truly shape our reality? All in the Mind, from BBC Radio 4, moves beyond simple self-help to explore the intricate workings of the human psyche. Guided by Claudia Hammond, each episode is a thoughtful journey into the latest research and evidence from the worlds of psychology, neuroscience, and mental health. You'll hear from leading scientists, clinicians, and sometimes people with direct personal experience, all contributing to a deeper understanding of topics like memory, emotion, resilience, and perception. This isn't just a theoretical discussion; it's about connecting scientific discovery to the everyday experiences that define us. The conversations in this podcast are designed to be accessible yet deeply informative, stripping away jargon to reveal what the evidence really tells us about our minds. Whether it's unpacking the mechanics of anxiety, the science of happiness, or the mysteries of consciousness, Claudia's nuanced approach provides clarity and insight. Tune in for a compelling blend of personal stories and rigorous science that challenges assumptions and illuminates the hidden forces behind our behaviour. This is a space for curious listeners who want to look beneath the surface of thought and feeling, discovering the fascinating evidence that explains how we all operate.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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