Brain Imaging of Intranasal Oxytocin Treatment in Autism

Inclusion Criteria: * Between 6 and 18 years of age, inclusive * Have a clinical diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder confirmed according to the Autism Diagnostic Observation Scale (ADOS, Lord et al., 1989). Diagnosis may also be confirmed using the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R). * Male or female of any race or ethnicity * Ambulatory status (outpatient) at time of assent/consent * Estimated IQ greater than or equal to 70 and capable of making an informed decision based on assessment of their understanding and judgment Exclusion Criteria: * History of neurological injury: head trauma, poorly-controlled seizure disorder (i.e. seizure within the preceding six month period), stroke, prior neurosurgery, or under the care of a neurologist or neurosurgeon as determined by interview * History of claustrophobia * Implanted medical devices, implanted metal debris, shrapnel, certain tattoos, or permanent makeup that is contraindicated for MRI. Participants fill out a detailed questionnaire on the day of scanning to identify potential MRI risks * Subjects with a medical condition that might interfere with the conduct of the study, confound interpretation of the study results, or endanger their own well-being. This includes, but is not limited to: Rett Syndrome, impairment of renal function, evidence or history of malignancy or any significant hematological, endocrine, cardiovascular (including any rhythm disorder or uncontrolled hypertension), respiratory, hepatic, or gastrointestinal disease * Marked sensory impairment such as deafness or blindness that would interfere with the conduct of the study * Pregnant or nursing because of the unknown effects of oxytocin to unborn babies and/or nursing infants. All females of child-bearing potential will be administered a serum pregnancy test at screening and at any point during the study at physician discretion. Refusal to undergo a pregnancy test will result in exclusion from the study. We will share results of a pregnancy test with the subject's legal guardian. * Refusal to do pregnancy testing with understanding that guardian will be informed of positive test results * Inability or refusal of sexually active female subjects (who have begun menses) to utilize two medically accepted barrier forms of birth control * Use of hormonal birth control * Subjects who have a history of an anaphylactic reaction from prior treatment with oxytocin (nasal spray) * Inability of caretakers to speak English * Absence of a consistent caretaker to report on symptoms * Subjects who, in the Investigator's opinion, might not be suitable for the study