This book brings hope where despair has prevailed. It offers the prospect of early detection of prodromal signs of autism and the possibility of effective therapeutic mitigation. Directed at the clinical practitioners who must build bridges between theory and practice, this book combines what we know with what we know that works, all for the betterment of the babies and their families. Early intervention is the treatment, the tool of the clinician, because it sits somewhere between prevention and acute care. The advances described in the book -- from the medical, biological and psychological sciences -- have extended our reach for better outcomes into the preverbal, the unconscious and the mental matrices that define our behavior. Stella Acquarone and her colleagues show us that we can recognize the signs of autism in infants and intervene early -- and that these interventions have proved successful.

Examines characteristics of infants later diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders, neuropsychological test performance of children, and developmental information obtained from detailed parent interviews. Includes neuropsychologic functioning in children with autism, and more. For psychologists.

Taking a psychoanalytic and developmental approach, Autism and Personality outlines the new developments in therapeutic techniques used by the Tavistock Autism Team and Workshop in London to treat autistic children. It also underlines the importance of support for parents and siblings, who are all too often ignored as a factor in the child's progress. The contributors present fresh ideas about the importance of personality in the development of the condition, and the implications of psychotherapeutic technique. Using vignettes to illustrate theoretical ideas, coupled with vivid case studies highlighting the patient's changing contact with the therapist, the book gives a fascinating picture of the individuality of each child and of the sensitivity and skill required for each treatment. Accessible to both parents and professionals, Autism and Personality provides valuable insight into the nature and course of autism and its treatment.

Autism is one of the most compelling, controversial, and heartbreaking cognitive disorders. It presents unique philosophical challenges as well, raising intriguing questions in philosophy of mind, cognitive science, and philosophy of language that need to be explored if the autistic population is to be responsibly served. Starting from the "theory of mind" thesis that a fundamental deficit in autism is the inability to recognize that other persons have minds, Deborah R. Barnbaum considers its implications for the nature of consciousness, our understanding of the consciousness of others, meaning theories in philosophy of language, and the modality of mind.This discussion lays the groundwork for consideration of the value of an autistic life, as well as the moral theories available to persons with autism. The book also explores questions about genetic decision making, research into the nature of autism, and the controversial quest for a cure. This is a timely and wide-ranging book on a disorder that commends itself to serious ethical examination.

This important volume provides a theoretical framework for the usefulness of the stress construct in understanding and treating autism. Contributions by researchers, clinicians, teachers and persons living with autism illustrate how stress influences the lives of persons with autism; how those touched by autism cope with stress; and how clinicians, teachers and caregivers can reduce the impact of stress in autism, experience of stress in autism, and daily-life strategies for the reduction of stress in autism. Narratives by individuals with autism, family members, clinicians, and a historian help to understand in a rich and unique way in which the role and impact of stress in the life of people living with autism. First-person accounts also highlight creative coping strategies over a lifetime. This volume's biological, psychological and social perspectives on stress and autism reflect may modes of inquiry and types of information. Stress and Autism will be of great help to both mental health professionals and caregivers alike.

Three-year-old Julien withdraws into his own world. He does not make any attempt to communicate by gesture or facial expression. He spends hours playing with a piece of string. What can be done? Try to remove the 'block' by waiting for some expression of what he wants? Apply learning techniques to learning to perform the most useful elementary gestures? The therapy proposed for little Julien is based on the experience and practice of a multidisciplinary team. It involves eliciting and encouraging exchange through play and hence the development of communication. The basis is the study of the development and functioning of the nervous system. There are three principles which guide the child and the therapist: calm, in order to facilitate selection of information, receptiveness, in order to make free association possible, and reciprocity which is elicited by free association.

In the decade since the first edition of The Neurobiology of Autism was published, research has revealed valuable new information about the nature and origins of autism, including genetics and abnormalities in such neurotransmitters as acetylcholine and serotonin. For this long-anticipated new edition, neurologists Margaret L. Bauman and Thomas L. Kemper bring together leading researchers and clinicians to present the most current scientific knowledge and theories about autism. The contributors cover genetics, imaging studies, physiology, neuroanatomy and neurochemistry, immunology, brain function, the epidemiology of the disease, and related disorders. Thoroughly updated, The Neurobiology of Autism remains the best single-volume work on the wide array of research being conducted into the causes, characteristics, and treatment of autism.

This book draws together contributions from some of the leading investigators in the field of autism to consider specific problem areas in current research. Each contributor brings expertise from a different field, providing a balanced view of the whole spectrum of study of this disorder.

Many people with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are remarkably proficient at remembering how things look and sound, even years after an event. They are also good at rote learning and establishing habits and routines. Some even have encyclopaedic memories. However, all individuals with ASD have difficulty in recalling personal memories and reliving experiences, and less able people may have additional difficulty in memorising facts. This book assembles new research on memory in autism to examine why this happens and the effects it has on people's lives. The contributors utilise recent advances in the understanding of normal memory systems and their breakdown as frameworks for analysing the neuropsychology and neurobiology of memory in autism. The unique patterning of memory functions across the spectrum illuminates difficulties with sense of self, emotion processing, mental time travel, language and learning, providing a window into the nature and causes of autism itself.

Psychological research into autism spectrum disorders (ASD) has increased exponentially in the last two decades. Much of this work has been led by various theorists who claim to have identified processes that hold the key to understanding the condition. As a consequence, newcomers to the field feel that they have to opt for one or more of the competing approaches and to neglect the remainder as being in some way wrong. In fact, the different theoretical perspectives are just that - different points of view on the same phenomenon - each with its own insights to offer. This is not to say that understanding ASD in psychological terms is just a matter of choosing a perspective and that all perspectives are of equal value. Clearly they are not. This book, in addition to providing an outline of what current perspectives have to offer, also provides a framework to help readers to decide which aspects of psychological research into ASD contribute to our understanding of the field and how these can be integrated in a way that enables research to be taken forward.

Convenience is a luxury that most parents and educators don't experience often. Strategies at Hand reintroduces the much-valued concept of convenience to parents, teachers, paraprofessionals, and related professionals who work with students with autism spectrum disorders. It features easy-to-implement strategies that can be used in all types of educational settings and situations. This at-your-fingertips tool is broken down into five color-coded sections that are easy to locate and use: Learning Environments (classroom, field trips, etc.), Areas of Student Need (communication, behavior, etc.), Transitions (substitute teachers, school assemblies, etc.), Alphabetical Explanations of Terms (functional behavioral assessment, picture communication systems, etc.), and Resources and References. The bookmark size and unique binding of Strategies at Hand make for a format that lends itself to be stuck into a smock, apron, or pant pocket. The authors created Strategies at Hand so that tried-and-tested strategies and tips would be handy semester after semester. In support of this goal, the slim pages are coated to withstand the wear and tear of constant use.

As the rate of autism diagnosis continues to escalate, awareness and recognition of this developmental brain disorder � as well as a demand for services � are also mushrooming. School districts, already struggling under the weight of withering budgets and increasing enrollments, are now scrambling to strike a balance between the types of services and treatments parents want for their children and what the school system can afford to provide. Consequently, a broad cross-section of professionals and parents are searching for the means and methods by which to identify and address the wide-ranging educational needs of the children with autism spectrum disorder. Identifying, Assessing, and Treating Autism at School provides a one-stop resource that enables school psychologists to coordinate efforts between students and parents as well as other educators, administrators, and social services providers to determine which interventions are likely to be most effective in meeting the unique needs of children with autism. This volume, designed as a practical, easy-to-use reference for school psychologists and other educational professionals: Makes the case for why school psychologists and their colleagues need to be more prepared, willing, and able to identify and serve students with autism. Identifies the causes, prevalence, and associated conditions of autism spectrum disorders. Provides a review of screening, referral, and diagnostic assessment processes. Offers much-needed guidance on conducting psychoeducational assessments. Reviews appropriate treatments for students with autism. School psychologists, general and special educators, counselors, and social workers will find Identifying, Assessing, and Treating Autism at School an invaluable resource.

Mental health professionals and educators are increasingly being asked to evaluate and assess children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) as the number of children with these disorders increases. This timely and important book provides practical guidance on how to organize and conduct assessment activities with a purpose, based on the goals of the evaluation. It features case study material to illustrate test use and clinical assessment for all aspects of psychological assessment. In addition, it covers ASDs with younger/older and high/low functioning individuals. Applied developmental psychologists, child psychologists, school psychologists, as well as special education teachers and other school personnel will benefit from this book.

This book brings together the latest research in the battle against autism.

From leading clinical researchers, this book presents important advances in understanding and treating the early social-communication difficulties that are hallmarks of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). It is grounded in current findings on typically and atypically developing infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Contributors highlight the connections between ASD and impairments in joint attention, communication and language, play, and imitation. They review approaches to supporting children's functioning in each area, along with evidence-based screening and assessment strategies. Valuable advice is offered on matching treatment to individual children's needs. The book also explores the developmental and neurobiological processes that underlie social-communication deficits in ASD.

This work offers accounts of the development (typical and atypical), of persons with autism, with reference to developmental theory and research. It should be of use to students and professionals in psychology, psychiatry, social work and developmental psychology.

Rich with clinical insights, this volume reviews the state of the science of identifying and treating autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in very young children. Leading authorities examine critical research issues and present innovative approaches to assessing social, cognitive, adaptive, communication, and sensory-motor impairments in the first two years of life. Providing a comprehensive discussion of developmental, behavioral, and medical intervention models, the book also addresses ways to support families in coping with an early ASD diagnosis and becoming effective advocates for their children. A special chapter discusses popular but controversial treatments, including how to help families make informed decisions about their use.

This updated third edition addresses the difficulties that the autistic syndrome presents for the clinician, with diagnostic aids and clear guidelines for medical evaluation. These two world authorities provide detailed explanations of current knowledge of the molecular biology and genetics of the syndrome. New chapters discuss adults with autism, behavior complexes, and neurology. Other features are reviews of available medical therapies and updates on other interventions, such as psychoeducation and behavioral modification procedures. The authors encompass all aspects of the syndrome and its management and conclude with an essential integration of current knowledge from diverse fields.

Covering theory, research, and the development of new hypotheses and models, the book provides a balance between depth and breadth by focusing on questions most central to the field. The volume has been designed to be accessible and informative to a broad audience, including clinicians, researchers, and students.

Discusses movement differences and symptoms of movement disturbance that affect a person's ability to act, to think, to imagine, to feel, and to speak.

The story of autism contains many puzzles, but none more tantalizing than the problem of the eccentric individual who appears to be both intellectually gifted and mentally handicapped and who finds it difficult to deal with everyday social interaction and communication. Such individuals are increasingly recognized as suffering from Asperger Syndrome. The argument presented in this book is that they suffer from a form of autism, but that they can compensate for this handicap to a remarkable degree. In this volume the foremost experts in the field discuss the diagnostic criteria of the syndrome, richly illustrated with examples from their clinical practices. Clinical accounts are balanced with personal accounts and some as yet preliminary research data. Asperger's classic paper is translated and annotated. The insights of this pioneer of autism have been unjustly neglected but reflect a very modern awareness of the many forms of autism and the wide range of individual differences in the men and women who suffer from this disorder. Asperger Syndrome individuals with their intellectual and linguistic ability and their desire for social adaptation are extremely vulnerable.

Text is derived from a Theme Issue first published by Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society, Series B. Focuses on new ideas and clinical findings influencing the understanding of autism and its variants. Discusses various therapeutic approaches. Hardcover, softcover also available.

Despite an increase in the awareness of autism, families and professionals continue to struggle to find treatments that will fulfil the individual needs of their child. From Research to Individualized Practice bridges the gap between the latest research findings and clinical practice. The authors have brought together information from both fields in order to offer the reader best practice principles and hands-on techniques. These are all illustrated by clinical case examples and vivid illustrations.

Very little is known about the occurrence of psychiatric and emotional disorders in persons with autism and Asperger's syndrome. The author alerts parents and professionals to this fact and provides sound advice for detection and treatment. He is not proposing a link, rather the need to systematically characterise such problems.

Thirty papers by an international panel representing a wide variety of professional and theoretical approaches summarize the major recent research and clinical developments in the field of autism from infancy to adulthood. Topics include early symptoms, social and cognitive dysfunctions, recent neurobiological findings, immunological investigations, educational evaluation, pharmacotherapy, psychodynamic oriented psychotherapy, exchange and development therapies, a London home-treatment program, the organization of services for autistic children and their families, and the special problems of autistic adolescents and adults. Annotation(c) 2003 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

This special thematic volume on Autism in the International Review of Research in Mental Retardation series provides a comprehensive overview of research on autism today. Coverage includes discussion of the genetics, diagnosis, neural and cognitive basis, and development of autism, as well as an exploration of the effects of autism on language, attachment, and emotional responsiveness. A final chapter examines the psychological impact that raising an autistic child has on the family.

Significant progress has been made in assessing children with autism spectrum disorders, but the field has lacked a single, comprehensive resource that assembles current best practices within a unified assessment framework. This authoritative book demonstrates how to craft a complete, scientifically grounded, and clinically useful portrait of a child's strengths and difficulties in social behavior, language and communication, intellectual functioning, motor skills, and other key areas of impairment and comorbidity. Leading experts illustrate ways in which school and clinical practitioners can integrate data from a variety of sources to improve the accuracy of diagnosis and inform the development of individualized interventions.

This important Handbook presents the latest research and practical knowledge about a broad range of disorders with a genetic component that affect children's learning, behavior, and development. The book demonstrates the difference that well-planned interventions and accommodations can make in the health and functioning of children with mild to severe neurodevelopmental impairment. Chapters offer in-depth discussions of specific disorders, including learning disabilities, ADHD, Tourette syndrome, anxiety disorders, pervasive developmental disorders, and numerous less frequently encountered conditions. Current research on etiologies is reviewed, neurodevelopmental, psychosocial, and medical implications are considered, and practical suggestions are provided for assessment and clinical management

How can we best support the people in living successfully with Asperger's Syndrome? This will involve going into how the condition arises, the best understanding of the condition that is currently available, summarizing the knowledge coming out of research, and considering how the condition actually affects individuals. During his more than 35 years in the autism business, the author has met hundreds of individuals and their families, and has worked closely with many of them in coaching and teaching situations. He has, perforce, also worked closely with their families in the course of this exploration, and these experiences of individual stories are used to counter balance the generalities that necessarily arise when one examines research and theory, which is constantly trying to identify similarities in order to create a useful pattern. A miracle cure is not proposed, or even a solution that will work for everyone in this group, but the author suggests that a new and accessible, though perhaps slightly quirky approach can make a significant difference to some and that wider application is worth exploring.

In her newest book, Laura J. Hall writes a theoretical, contemporary, and practical approach to teaching students with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Throughout the text, this established author addresses the communication and social and relationship issues faced by individuals with autism spectrum disorders, presents educators with best practices and programs for increasing academic achievement, and guides her readers in identifying, placing, and instructing students through real-life classroom and family cases. The text introduces the strategies used to determine the cause of ASD, a step-by-step guide for assessment, the use of evidence-based practices to educate these individuals as mandated by the laws, and a thorough examination of the major theoretical perspectives. Unique to textbooks for the field, Hall also addresses families from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, working collaboratively with all families, and building communities of practice. This exceptional resource will prepare practicing and future educators to succeed at implementing the best, most common and current evidence-based practices for teaching students with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Autism is a fascinating yet perplexing disorder that continues to intrigue researchers and clinicians studying the brain and behavior. Francesca Happe provides a concise overview of current psychological theory and research that synthesizes manifestations of this disorder--focusing her discussion on dealing with both thought and feeling.

Childhood Autism provides clinicians with a comprehensive guide for working with autistic children and their families. It offers practical assistance with early diagnosis, cutting edge treatment options and goals, interdisciplinary insights, and available resources. Empirical research findings are presented in a clear, accessible manner. Perhaps most importantly, vivid case examples bring both the therapist's and patient's experience to the fore as they work towards recovery. This clear and informative book should be required reading for professionals and students in the fields of medicine, social work, psychology, education, and any other clinicians who work with children on the autism spectrum.

The purpose of this essay is to illustrate how the phenomenon of early childhood autism may cast light on issues that are central to our Understanding Of Normal Child Development - Issues Such As The Emotional origins of social experience and social understanding, the contribution of interpersonal relations to the genesis of symbolism and creative thought, and the role of intersubjectivity in the development of self. Drawing upon philosophical writings as well as empirical research on autism, the author challenges the individualistic and cognitive bias of much developmental psychology, and argues that early human development is founded upon a normal infant's capacity for distinct forms of "I - Thou" and "I - It" relatedness. To a large degree, autism may represent the psycho-pathological sequelae to biologically-based incapacities for social perception and interpersonal engagement.

Reflecting tremendous gains over the past decade in our understanding of the causes of autism, Clinical Manual for the Treatment of Autism meets the increasing need for clear, up-to-date, and evidence-based treatment. Internationally known researchers who are also skilled in treating patients with autism share treatment approaches they have either developed or thoroughly tested for safety and efficacy. The book describes in a straightforward manner how to diagnose autism, providing examples and guidelines for evaluation and testing of individuals of all ages and levels of functioning. It then evaluates the appropriate role of various medications for specific target symptoms and individuals: SSRIs and antidepressants, anticonvulsants and mood stabilizers, conventional and atypical antipsychotics, cholinesterase inhibitors, and stimulants and nonstimulants. In addition to pharmacological approaches, the book presents psychosocial treatments, including applied behavior analysis, the DIR/Floortime approach, peer relationship interventions, and educational approaches. It also describes complementary and alternative therapies and explores promising new avenues of treatment, making it a state-of-the-art compendium that will help advance the care that people with autism receive.

This book describes the causes, course, and treatment of a variety of developmental and genetic disorders, including attention-deficit disorder, Fragile X syndrome, and the autistic spectrum disorders. The volume places a particular focus on the course of disorders over time and outcome in adulthood. As well as providing succinct and up-to-date summaries of the most recent research, the authors give clinicians practical guidelines for intervention and management with children and young adults.

Because of the unique needs of children with ASD, it is important to pay special attention to the details of their experience in the medical environment. Designed to help make the medical experience easier for all involved, this book presents information on ASD, the varying developmental levels, interventions, and assessments that medical staff, parents, educators, and key service providers can use to more effectively interact with and support children with ASD while in the medical setting. The information and techniques presented in "Prescription for Success" can be used by doctors, nurses, medical technicians, residents, interns, and even administrative staff to support children with ASD and their families in what can otherwise be trying circumstances. A CD at the back of the book includes forms and worksheets that can be printed and duplicated.

Changes within the interdisciplinary field of intellectual and developmental disabilities are evolving at a rapid pace. Clinicians, academics, administrators, and a variety of mental health providers alike need easy-to-access, reliable information that enables them to stay abreast of the numerous advances in research, assessment, treatment, and service delivery within a real-world sociopolitical framework. To that end, the Handbook of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities is an essential resource for any professional who works with this vulnerable population. This volume examines in detail the numerous advances in the field, summarizing major domains and emerging subspecialties into one eminently useful reference. Its contributors comprise a panel of the leading scientist-clinicians, who offer much-needed insight and guidance into ongoing improvements in theory and practice as well as intervention and prevention.

Handbook offering an overview of current understandings of autism and related disorders, including Asperger's syndrome, from a behavioral, biological, and psychological perspective. For those interested in developmental psychology.

Young Adutls with Asperger's includes original artwork and writings of Taylor Crowe and Peter Krug, two young adults on the autism spectrum with savant abilities. Topics in the Handbook include: A review of possible causes; the controversy over prevalence; ways to improve social skills; and methods for assisting these young adults in their transition to independence.

This book is the first in a series aimed at addressing the rapidly expanding field of assessment and treatment of children with mental health issues and/or development disabilities. Autism: Early Childhood Interventions is aimed at the researcher of practitioner who works with those young children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. In addition to covering major research developments in differential diagnosis and early intervention, the author's provide a critical review and analysis of core concept that define this area. The first chapter of the book reviews the development of definitions of autism along with early methods for diagnosing this area of developmental disabilities. Chapter two covers some of the most discussed theories of etiology along with a review of prevalence and the author's opinions on why the number of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder has increased markedly in recent years. A chapter on the most commonly used assessment methods and a critique of the psychometric properties of each is followed by three chapters on treatment. We have broken the treatment chapters down based on type of intervention. The first treatment chapter covers specific target behaviors or small sets of behaviors. A second chapter covers training for the packaged comprehensive treatment models with particular emphasis on the TEACCH, UCLA-YAP and the University of California Santa Barbara Autism Research and Training Program. Each of these programs gives a unique perspective on treatment for these young children. The final treatment chapter covers the recent developments in pharmacotherapy for autism spectrum disorder, with a critical analysis and review of the data.

Provides a multidisciplinary review of the background, general issues, and some specific topics relating to autism. The 13 chapters discuss the history of the subject, definition and assessment, differential diagnosis, the graying of autism, self- help and community skills, and other topics. No mention is made of this being a second edition, but BiP++ shows a different publisher and a date of 3/93. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.

Autism spectrum disorder has received increasing research in recent years, with more information on assessment and treatment than can be readily assimilated from primary literature by clinicians. Clinical Assessment and Intervention for Autism Spectrum Disorders summarizes evidence-based assessments and intervention for Autism across the life-span, providing clinicians with a practical overview of how best to assess and treat this disorder. The book begins with a discussion of what warrants a determination of being "evidence based" and a description of the disorder from a life span perspective. The book also provides a chapter on differential diagnosis of autism relative to other disorders. What follows are separate sections on assessment and intervention. These chapters discuss first how to assess and then separately how to treat behavioral problems, communication and social skills issues, academic and vocational skills, and the use of pharmacology and an assessment of possible pharmacological effects. Intended for practitioners assessing and treating children with developmental delays, the book provides clinicians with best practices for assessing and treating delays associated with autism.

Research on autism has flourished in the last twenty years, and a result of this growth is increased specialization within the neurocognitive, clinical and interventionist fields of inquiry. As specialities swell, however, research lines become isolated. This collection of research on autism spectrum disorders investigates a range of current thinking-from functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging studies to naturalistic intervention. "Autism: an Integrated View" features contributions from scientific teams at the forefront of contemporary research on autism. These experts have concluded that an interdisciplinary approach is not only necessary to the understanding of this complex developmental disorder but is also an essential link in defining key issues found in other disciplines. The text includes helpful cross reference sections to connect chapter topics; its introductory and concluding chapters highlight major research themes while exploring broader issues on the integration of autism research. This comprehensive overview balances a wide scope of perspectives for scholars, practitioners, and students alike.

Integrating basic and clinical neuroscience perspectives, this work presents a comprehensive examination of current autism research. It discusses epidemiology, genetics, and clinical neuroscience and neural systems, stimulating new directions for research and new drug development. An underlying theme focuses on the potential for future genomic research. The text also explores social, economic, and advocacy issues.

Most professionals who are currently involved with people, regarded as having Asperger's syndrome, would recognize the condition as high-functioning autism. Because of the level of intelligence, related to people with Asperger's syndrome, the condition enables the sufferer to develop coping strategies, with the support of professionals. At present, there are professionals who have limited knowledge of Asperger's syndrome, despite the availability of information about the condition. The purpose of this book is to give clear, concise information, from those who know about Asperger's syndrome, at first hand. One of the principal areas of difficulty for Aspergers lies in social awareness and cohesion. This is referred to throughout this book. This book also provides strategies for professionals, as well as a map, to navigate through that which will facilitate a greater comprehension of the difficulties faced by those with this condition. This information is given with the proviso that professional people work with people with the condition and meet them half way, so that the AS person can fill-in the gaps on how the condition affects them personally. We believe that there is every reason for early intervention in Asperger's syndrome. Early diagnoses of the condition will help to avoid difficulties, which could effectively hamper an Asperger child's development. It is unfortunate that people are being diagnosed with the condition well into adulthood, by which time other mental health problems have arisen, making it harder to create strategies for the future.

This is a manual for entry-level and advanced occupational, physical, and speech-language therapists, and a source of information for parents, teachers, and other professionals. It provides a holistic view of autistic spectrum disorders, examining the interrelationship between behaviors, mannerisms, sensory processing, motor control, speech and language, and functional skills. It details intervention strategies that make use of sensory integration, neuro-development treatment, augmentive communication, and traditional occupational, physical, and speech therapy. Many treatment ideas, games, and activities are provided, along with explanations for using therapy equipment. Many b&w photos illustrating techniques and equipment in use are included. Murray-Slutsky and Paris are co-owners and directors of a rehabilitation center.Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

With the increased number of children being diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders, parents and professionals are in search of materials that provide information theat will enable them to better understand affected children. While in the past individuals who were diagnosed had limited verbal and intellectual skills, newly diagnosed children often have good language skills and even areas of giftedness. This A-to-Z work contains original entries on the topic of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Entries include facts about disabilities, personal and historic perspectives, interventions, assessments, educational methods, trusted internet resources, and national organizations. The work outlines the contributions of founding researchers and other professionals and includes personal perspectives from individuals with ASD and their parents. It also includes lesson plans that can be implemented in a home, school, or community setting. No other such definitive resource exists that provides both educational and practical information related to ASD.

Kyorin University, Mitake City, Japan. International Congress Series, Volume 965. Proceedings of the International Symposium on Neurobiology of Infantile Autism, A Satellite Meeting of the Joint Convention of the 5th International Child Neurology Congress and the 3rd Asian and Oceanian Congress.

This comprehensive collection of over 500 terms related to autism spectrum disorders and pervasive developmental disorders clearly explains classification systems, causes, prevalence, diagnosis, screening and assessment, interventions, medical issues and legislation associated with autism, complemented by synonyms and cross-references. Two appendices provide a list of assessments and instruments used in diagnosis and intervention, and a list of autism-related study centers and organizations, complete with descriptions and contact details. Over 70 experts from disciplines such as pediatrics, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, speech and language therapy, education, psychology and psychiatry have contributed entries to make this encyclopedia a 'must-have' resource for parents and professionals.

After a child's autism diagnosis, how can therapists, educators, and early interventionists best support parents and caregivers? This book is filled with the first-hand parent feedback professionals need to answer this critical question. Building on their research project that captured the experiences of more than 60 families, the authors reflect on excerpts from dozens of interviews that reveal parents' needs, concerns, beliefs, and dreams. Through these candid revelations and the authors' expert commentary, professionals will increase their understanding of the parent experience so they can provide the best possible services for children and families. Readers will discover invaluable insights they'll use to * avoid misunderstandings and communicate accurately and sensitively * understand parents' complex emotions and perceptions * nurture strong, respectful partnerships with parents * conduct effective assessment and intervention * demystify assessment results for parents * assist families in choosing and evaluating intervention services * help families manage the short- and long-term issues that arise when parenting a child with ASD * increase their own awareness of the vocabulary of autism and the facts and mysteries of the disorder. Essential reading for students, new professionals, and established practitioners alike, this incisive, accessible guide gives readers something they can't get elsewhere � a deep understanding of parents' needs and feelings, directly from over 60 families with firsthand experience.

Text presents scientific findings to aid in the early diagnosis and intervention for autism. Uses evidence-based medicine and provides specific guidelines for early evaluation and treatments leading to vast improvement in outcomes for children with autism. For psychologists.

The characteristics of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) present unique challenges, not only to people themselves affected, but also to counselling professionals. This manual provides counselling techniques that work not only for professionals, but also for individuals either coping with being on the spectrum themselves, or living with someone who has an ASD. Regardless of intellectual and linguistic ability, people on the autism spectrum often have significant impairments in emotional expression, regulation, and recognition, and they are known to have higher rates of depression and anxiety than the general population. This comprehensive book shows how to develop the tools necessary to help people on the spectrum cope with their emotions, anxieties, and confusion about the often overwhelming world that surrounds them. Illustrated with useful case studies, it covers a range situations where counselling may be helpful for individuals with ASD, both children and adults, families where a member is on the spectrum, and couples where a partner has ASD. It also addresses specific issues, including depression, anxiety, emotional regulation, social skills, and stress, with effective strategies for dealing with each issue. As well as being indispensable for counsellors, this book provides valuable information and advice for anyone working with people and families affected by ASDs.

This book, aimed at the medical community and the teaching profession, introduces the medical background to autism and discusses current educational approaches to helping those diagnosed as autistic. The book sets out to inspire as well as to inform those involved with the medical or educational management of people with autism.

This international collection provides a comprehensive overview of cutting-edge research on autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) by well-known experts in the field, stressing the importance of early diagnosis and a good working relationship between parents and professionals. The contributors cover a wide range of aspects of ASDs, from early assessment techniques, neurodevelopment and brain function to language development, executive function and genetic research. They explore how individuals with ASDs think and give evidence-based guidance on how to handle difficulties with social interaction and language development using appropriate interventions. New Developments in Autism will be of great interest to professionals, researchers, therapists, parents and people with ASDs.

Today at least seven million children and adolescents are afflicted with developmental, behavioral, or mental disorders such as Asperger's Disorder. Examining the etiology, diagnosis and treatment of this condition, Asperger's Disorder: is filled with comprehensive treatments in Asperger's Disorder, including diagnostic tools, imaging techniques, case studies, etiology, treatments, and pharmacotherapies; gives necessary guidance to psychiatrists and neurologists to ensure that they can correctly diagnose Asperger's Disorder from other neuro-developmental disorders; investigates prevalence of Asperger's Disorder and presents individual case studies; and devotes entire chapters to the individual subjects: diagnosis, biological treatment, pharmacological treatment, and behavioral treatment.

Edward R. Ritvo MD is an internationally recognized medical expert and pioneer in the field of autism and Asperger's disorder and co-author of the DSM definitions. Much of what is known about these disorders today is based on his painstaking research and groundbreaking discoveries. In this book he shares his forty years' experience and opens his extensive UCLA casebook to the reader. Understanding the Nature of Autism and Asperger's Disorder is 'a consultation with Prof. Ritvo' � an accessible introduction for professionals, spouses, families and individuals with the disorders. It explains the most important facts and findings about autism and Asperger's Disorder, including: how Prof. Ritvo makes a diagnosis; what the causes are; what is different in the brain; treatments that work (and those that don't); what a child might be like when he grows up; what services to expect from professionals and; what future research holds. This book is an absolute must-read for anyone with an interest in autism spectrum disorders, whether a practitioner, a parent, a student or an affected individual.

From earliest infancy, a typically developing child imitates or mirrors the facial expressions, postures and gestures, and emotional behavior of others. Where does this capacity come from, and what function does it serve? What happens when imitation is impaired? Synthesizing cutting-edge research emerging from a range of disciplines, this important book examines the role of imitation in both autism and typical development. Topics include the neural and evolutionary bases of imitation, its pivotal connections to language development and relationships, and how early imitative deficits in autism might help explain the more overt social and communication problems of older children and adults.

This book is concerned with the study of children and adults with Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD). The book provides theoretical, educational and clinical perspectives related to this disorder. The perspectives discussed are based upon past and present theories of autism, educational practices over the past thirty years, and recent clinical innovations. The authors felt that these features set the book apart from other books in the field. Additionally, the term ASD recognizes that this is a very heterogeneous disorder that encompasses the classic autistic disorder and milder variants such as Asperger syndrome and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified.

DC-LD is a new classification system providing operationalised diagnostic criteria for psychiatric disorders, intended for use with adults with moderate to profound learning disabilities.

Autism continues to fascinate researchers because of its debilitating effects and its complex nature and origins. Contributors to this book present arguments that autism is primarily a disorder of 'executive functions', those involved in the control of action and thought. The book provides a new and controversial perspective from some of the leading researchers in this field.

Professionals working with parents of autistic children not only face the challenges of treating the child but also must deal with the stresses of the family. A leading child psychiatrist and father of an autistic child shares professional advice about treatments, answering families' questions, and providing them with realistic expectations.

The AAPEP extends the assessment of the PEP to the adolescent and older age group in the moderate to severe range of mental retardation. The AAPEP uses the same scoring system as the PEP, focusing on emerging skills to facilitate educational planning. Emphasis is on evaluating functional skills from three areas of assessment: direct observation, home, and schoolwork. The test provides assessment for appropriate placement decisions in residential, educational, and vocational sites.

The PEP-3 is a revision of the popular instrument that has been used for more than 20 years to assess the skills and behaviors of children with autism and communicative disabilities who function between the ages of 6 months to 7 years. The profile resulting from the PEP-3 graphically charts uneven and idiosyncratic development, emerging skills, and autistic behavioral characteristics. This test meets the need for an assessment tool to assist in the educational programming for young children (ages 3 through 5) with disabilities and is particularly useful in planning for older students' Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). The PEP-3 now includes a Caregiver Report. This report utilizes parent input and is completed prior to the administration of the assessment. The form asks the parent or caregiver to estimate the child's developmental level compared with typical children. This form has been shown to help orient teachers to a student's developmental inconsistencies. The PEP-3 has included additional data that identify special learning strengths and teachable skills. Also, the third edition is improved by offering normative data both from a group of children in the autism spectrum as well as from a comparison group of children without autism. It is the only test to date that provides data for within-group comparison to children in the autism spectrum. Improvements to the PEP-3: 1. The function domains have been revised to reflect current research and clinical concerns, especially in the area of social and communication functions. 2. All of the toys and materials needed to administer the test (except food, drink, and a light switch) are now included with the test. 3. New items and subtests have been added; obsolete ones were deleted. 4. Normative data were collected from 2002 to 2003, with large national samples of children in the autism spectrum and of typical children ranging from 2 to 71/2 years of age. These are the first normative data provided for comparison of a child's PEP results with children of either comparison group. 5. Reliability coefficients have been computed by age for subgroups within the normative sample (i.e., males, females, white, black, and Hispanic Americans.) 6. Validity evidence is provided for children in the autism spectrum for all areas measured by the test. 7. The scoring has been quantified as 0, 1, and 2; and each score is clearly defined, making statistical comparisons more accurate. At the same time, the flexibility of the previous system, using pass, emerge, and fail, has been maintained. 8. A Caregiver Report has been added which includes Current Developmental Levels, Diagnostic Categories and Degree of Problem, and three subtests: Problem Behaviors; Personal Self-Care, and Adaptive Behavior. The Caregiver Report provides teachers and other professionals with information needed for a more thorough and complete planning for each child.

With investigative groups running independent of each other, the major goal of this book is to provide a comprehensive guide to theories of autism, including results of major studies of behavior within the context of a biological explanation of autism. Two opposing theoretical systems are compared-psychoanalytic theory and modern evolutionary theory-and the latter, a biological approach to personality theory is confirmed. By appreciating the part played by heredity and the environment, this book offers a fresh and insightful understanding of autism. It reads as a thorough overview and history of the literature and thinking on the subject of autism over the past 40 years. Contents: Rethinking Theories of Autism; Defining Autism; An Evolutionary View of Personality Development; Piaget's Analysis of Intelligence; Language and Thought in Autism; Aphasias and Autism; Human-Figure Drawing as a Projection of Autistic Experience; and Theoretical Bases of Treatments. Includes illustrations.

This book contains observations derived from a four year study of an autistic child, illustrating through observation and the expressive channels of art the symptoms and signs of psychopathology. The goal is to better understand the biosocial nature of autism and through the use of figure drawings, explicate the autistic process. The discussion is unique in that it places an ideographic case history in an incisive theoretical setting. In so doing it breaks new ground, inviting further work along the same lines from other scientists in the field. Contents: Infantile Autism; Case Study of a Young Child; Affect and Autism; Overall Reflections; and Case Studies of Two Adolescents.

Clinicians need the very latest research on all the hot-button topics related to autism -- both to work effectively with children and answer their families' most pressing questions. Autism Frontiers is the book no clinician should practice without: it brings together the biggest names in autism research to examine today's most important medical and clinical issues. This much-needed professional reference gives clinicians in-depth, up-to-date, and readily applicable research and guidance on the topics they'll encounter most: early diagnosis and intervention, language and social reciprocity, overlapping syndromes, complementary and alternative medicine, autism and epilepsy, parent advocacy, and more. Readers will also get Pasquale Accardo's quick, 14-item tool clinicians can use as a starting point in the screening process; tables, sample forms, and checklists to help clinicians identify characteristics of autism, elicit information from parents, record clinical impressions of children, and more; the latest from the highly respected experts who conduct the most cutting-edge autism research; best practice recommendations that help professionals create consistent "medical homes" for children with special needs. A must for every professional who works with children with autism spectrum disorders in a clinical setting�including physicians, psychologists, OTs, PTs, and SLPs -- this essential reference will help readers answer their biggest questions about autism so they can give children the best possible care.

This volume presents a longitudinal study that assesses the continuity and change to diagnosis, intelligence, and language skills in children with autism, Downs Syndrome, and other developmental delays. It also specifies deficits in social competence and language skills and identifies precursors in preschool and mid-school years. Although specific patterns vary between groups, the volume concludes that improvement in early communication and play skills may have some long-term consequences for later language and social competence in children with developmental delays.

This volume presents an integrative framework for conducting individualized assessments of children and adolescents with a wide range of disabilities and chronic conditions. Expert contributors first provide an overview of the field, reviewing general strategies and approaches to developmental assessment. The volume then addresses the issues that arise in working with young people with particular challenges, including motor impairments, auditory and visual impairments, autism, chronic health conditions, neurological problems, and exposure to trauma. Described are concepts and tools to guide the practitioner in deriving an accurate diagnosis, planning appropriate interventions in clinic or school, evaluating progress, and monitoring treatment outcomes. Structured in a cohesive format, chapters review the nature of each condition and its implications for health, development, and functioning at different ages and in various domains. The uses of specific assessment instruments are considered, and needed modifications in settings, tasks, and procedures identified. Emphasizing methods that are flexible and multidimensional, the volume includes numerous illustrative case vignettes.

Interest in Asperger Syndrome is on the rise, but until recently it has been examined almost exclusively in children and adolescents. Here, three leading researchers provide an overview of the relevant issues in adults, including diagnosis, co-morbid psychiatric conditions, psychosocial issues, and appropriate interventions, from psychotherapy to psychopharmacology.

This practical casebook and widely adopted text presents effective, creative approaches to helping children who have experienced such stressful situations as parental death or divorce, abuse and neglect, violence in the school or community, and natural disasters. While the book retains the focus on in-depth case studies that made prior editions so popular, 17 of the 21 chapters are entirely new, and all chapters reflect the latest knowledge on crisis intervention, trauma, and short-term play therapy. Timely new topics include the crisis of parental military deployment, the impact of Hurricane Katrina on families, immigration-related trauma, terrorism, and disrupted adoption.

The book provides details of the seven different stages of the model and includes anecdotal evidence from clients who have used it and whose relationships have been greatly helped by it. The author explains the importance of initial separate counselling and describes the co-counselling process, using case studies to demonstrate how the process works. The book offers a wealth of valuable advice on improving communication and cooperation and includes photocopiable activity sheets that couples can fill in and use to help understand each other better. Strategies and visual aids are also offered for dealing with or preventing anticipated future miscommunications. Based on considerable experience, this book will be invaluable for counsellors treating couples where one partner has Asperger Syndrome, or for couples that want to improve their relationship but may not have access to counselling. It will also be useful to teachers wanting better communication with AS pupils or parents wanting better communication with an AS child.

Asperger Syndrome and Alcohol exposes the unexplored problem of people with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) using alcohol as a coping mechanism to deal with everyday life. Alcohol can relieve the anxiety of social situations and make those with ASDs feel as though they can fit in. Ultimately, however, reliance on alcohol can lead the user down a path of self-destruction and exacerbate existing problems. Utilizing their professional and personal experience, the authors provide an overview of ASDs and of alcohol abuse, and explore current knowledge about where the two overlap. Tinsley explores his own personal history as someone with an ASD who has experienced and beaten alcohol addiction. He discusses how the impact of his diagnosis and his understanding of the condition played a huge part in his recovery, and how by viewing his life through the prism of autism, his confusion has been replaced by a greater understanding of himself and the world around him. This inspiring book on an under-researched area will be of interest to professionals working with people with ASDs, as well as individuals with ASDs who may be dealing with alcohol or substance misuse, and their families.

More than 300 entries address the different types of autism, causes and treatments, institutions, associations, leading scientists and research, social impact, and much more. The book tackles a complex and daunting subject in clear language suitable for the general reader. Appendixes include major relevant organizations, sources for further reading and research, a glossary, and a bibliography.

Explores developmental contributions to autism and probes the meaning of its specific behavioral symptoms.

An overview of the conditions traditionally considered the 'childhood psychoses' exploring developmental disorders characterized by a loss or impairment of functions expected for a child or adolescent's age. Eighteen contributors from the field of child psychiatry discuss the most recent changes in diagnosis and treatment for childhood schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder, autism, Rett's and Asperger's disorders, and relevant psychotic components. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.

Featuring contributions from leading authorities in the clinical and social sciences, this thoroughly revised and updated new edition reflects the most recent progress in the understanding of autism and related conditions, and offers an international perspective on the present state of the discipline. Chapters cover current approaches to definition and diagnosis; prevalence and planning for service delivery; cognitive, genetic, and neurobiological features; and pathophysiological mechanisms. There is a new chapter covering communication issues. Interventions reviewed include the pharmacological, behavioral, and educational, and a thoughtful final chapter addresses the nature of the fundamental social disturbance that characterizes autism.

Now in a fully updated Third Edition, The Handbook of Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorders has, since the first edition, become the most influential reference work in the field of autism and related conditions. In two volumes, this invaluable reference provides a comprehensive review of all information presently available about these disorders, drawing on findings and clinical experience from a number of related disciplines such as psychiatry, psychology, neurobiology, pediatrics, etc.

Now expanded to two volumes, this invaluable reference work provides a comprehensive review of all information presently available about these disorders, drawing on findings and clinical experience from a number of related disciplines such as psychiatry, psychology, neurobiology, pediatrics, etc. The Handbook covers descriptive and diagnostic characteristics, biological contributions, intervention techniques, legal and social issues. The Third Edition is updated to include the newest work in animal models, genetics, neuropsychological processes, screening and assessment methods.

The second edition of the benchmark reference Since its first edition, this handbook has become the most influential reference work in the field of autism and related conditions. Now expanded to two volumes, this comprehensive work provides a thorough review of these disorders, drawing on findings and clinical experience from a number of related disciplines. The Second Edition covers all current treatment models, and is updated to include new methods for screening and assessment, genetic components, and school-based interventions. All chapters have been thoroughly updated; two-thirds of chapters are entirely new to this edition. VolumeTwo includes the newest, most authoritative information available on assessment, interventions, and policy ramifications surrounding pervasive developmental disorders.

Our brightest, most creative children and adults are often being misdiagnosed with behavioral and emotional disorders such as ADHD, Oppositional-Defiant Disorder, Bipolar, OCD, or Asperger's. Many receive unneeded medication and inappropriate counseling as a result. Physicians, psychologist, and counselors are unaware of characteristics of gifted children and adults that mimic pathological diagnoses. Six nationally prominent health care professionals describe ways parents and professionals can distinguish between gifted behaviors and pathological behaviors.

This cross-disciplinary reference has it all -- a thorough explanation of the communication and language problems characteristic of autism as they relate to development, plus practical, research-based strategies for treatment. In Part I, the experts in the field of autism consolidate recent research and analyze topics that relate to the core areas of autism spectrum disorders -- communication, socialization, emotional regulation, and symbolic development. In Part II, they use this research as the framework for presenting principles and philosophies underlying treatment practices and guidelines that clinicians and educators can use to make critical assessment and intervention decisions.

Sarah Worth is a Speech and Language Therapist working with a multi-disciplinary county-wide autism team developing services and supporting children with autism/Asperger's syndrome in mainstream schools.

The needs of parents and carers of children on the autism spectrum are not met by conventional parenting strategies. This resource for trainers and facilitators offers the best available knowledge and theories to help them develop an understanding of how their child perceives the world and ultimately improve their family life. The manual is divided into ten sessions that introduce a topic related to autism and Asperger Syndrome, for example, 'mindblindness' and the social world, and strategies to manage individual behaviour. During each session parents are introduced to a new topic and are invited to participate in exercises and group discussions that serve to reinforce the key messages discussed earlier. Each session closes with recommended reading and 'homework'. This manual is a valuable resource for professionals working with parents of children and young people with autism and Asperger Syndrome and is an effective complement to How to Live with Autism and Asperger Syndrome: Practical Strategies for Parents and Professionals published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers, which is referenced throughout the resource.

Defines autism and summarizes past and current philosophies and practices relating to it; discusses research in related disciplines such as genetics, biochemistry, and psychology; describes intervention practices and strategies, including approaches to assessment and instruction; and explores emerging trends, among them early intervention, family involvement and services, community integration, and supported employment.

Defines the disease and summarizes past and current philosophies and practices relating to it; discusses research in related disciplines such as genetics, biochemistry, and psychology; describes intervention practices and strategies, including approaches to assessment and instruction; and explores emerging trends, among them early intervention, family involvement and services, community integration, and supported employment. No date is noted for the first edition. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Creative thinking and collaborative scientific research have advanced our understanding of autism, and we are now beginning to synthesize the data into evidence and theories. Autism: Current Theories and Evidence presents current theories about autism and the evidence that supports them. The goal is to show how the scientific method is revealing the biological bases of this spectrum of disorders, thereby leading the way to their treatment and prevention using evidence-based medicine. This book has 20 chapters divided into 6 sections: Molecular and Clinical Genetics; Neurotransmitters and Cell Signaling; Endocrinology, Growth and Metabolism; Immunology, Maternal-Fetal Effects and Neuroinflammation; Neuroanatomy, Imaging and Neural networks; and Environmental Mechanisms and Models. The subjects cover a wide range of current scientific work in the field of autism, with strong and growing evidence to support them, and demonstrate both the breadth and depth of current autism research. The reader is encouraged to consider how theories and the scientific method, in the hands of these and other dedicated researchers, are leading to greater knowledge and continued progress in autism research.