Autism: Social Communication Difficulties and Related Behaviors

There has been considerable progress and development in the diagnosis and intervention for children with autism during the past several decades. This chapter provides an account of the major findings that have led to our increased understanding of the behavioral manifestations of autism and the development of intervention techniques. Evidence on the etiology and intervention is reviewed within a framework that explores the possibility that neurological or physiological processes may result in an inappropriate level of social interaction which, in turn, leads to disabilities in communication and other problem behaviors that characterize autism. Understanding this atypical developmental track can lead directly to the understanding, intervention in, and prevention of many of the severe aspects of autism that are so stigmatizing and disabling to children, adolescents, and adults.