Sensory processing abnormalities are relatively universal in individuals with autism spectrum disorder, and can be very disabling. Surprisingly, very few studies have investigated these abnormalities in low-functioning adults with autism. The goals of the present study were (a) to characterize distinct profiles of sensory dysfunction, and (b) to…

Background: There is little evidence to guide the commissioning of residential provision for adults with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) in the UK. We aim to explore the degree and impact of diagnostic congregation among adults with intellectual disabilities (ID) and ASD living in staffed housing. Methods: One hundred and fifty-seven adults with…

Background: Owing to methodological issues, little research has been conducted to examine quality of life (QoL) as a treatment outcome in autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and intellectual disabilities (ID). This study was conducted to combine QoL measures and objective observations of challenging behaviours (CB) in order to evaluate changes over…

Raising an adolescent or adult child with a developmental disability confers exceptional care giving challenges on parents. We examined trajectories of 2 indicators of emotional well-being (depressive symptoms and anxiety) in a sample of primarily Caucasian mothers (N = 379; M[subscript age] = 51.22 years at Time 1) of adolescent and adult…

Behavior problems such as aggression, property destruction, stereotypy, self-injurious behavior, and other disruptive behavior are commonly observed among adults with intellectual disabilities (ID), autism spectrum disorders (ASD), and epilepsy residing at state-run facilities. However, it is unknown how these populations differ on behavior…

The article reviews characteristics of autism that affect adaptation to residential settings. A description of existing residential options, based on experiences in Great Britain and North Carolina, is presented. The development of residential programs specifically for people with autism is encouraged because their needs are often not met in…

A treatment package consisting of differential reinforcement of other behavior (DRO), token fines, and prompted relaxation was used to reduce the agitated-disruptive behavior of a young adult with autism and mental retardation living in a community group home. DRO procedures were partially implemented by a peer with Down syndrome. Baseline rates…

This paper presents a case study of a young girl diagnosed as autistic and having a history of tantrums, who was grouped with six other students with mild to moderate disabilities. Intervention plans developed by her teacher and a consultant addressed the girl's needs for more positive social and communication skills, focusing on increasing…

The Child Welfare League of America (CWLA) is the nation's oldest and largest membership-based child welfare organization committed to engaging people everywhere in promoting the well-being of children, youth, and their families and protecting every child from harm. By publishing a diverse range of views on a wide array of topics, "Children's…

This "Packet of Information for Professionals" (PIP) was developed for professionals who work with gifted and talented students who have an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The purpose of PIP is to offer recommendations that will lead to a positive experience for twice-exceptional students who participate in specialized programs for…

Thirteen institutionalized children from 4-1/2 to 14 years old, diagnosed as autistic, atypical, or childhood schizophrenic, were observed for three years to obtain a detailed description of their speech and language behavior. Case histories were assembled from available medical and psychological data. During a program of experimental relationship…

This book provides practical advice on recognizing the symptoms, understanding the medication, and accessing the necessary support at school as well as the managing the day-to-day challenges of parenting a child with bipolar disorder. It draws on case studies to show what bipolar disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Tourette…