This study evaluated the use of the Prevent-Teach-Reinforce (PTR) model as an intensive individualized behavior intervention. Three educators and three high school students with autism spectrum disorder participated in the study. A concurrent multiple baseline design across participants was used to demonstrate the outcomes. The results indicated…

Students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have marked deficits in social communication skills, which can challenge their ability to participate in academic and social activities. Music therapy is a popular intervention for children with ASD, and although research evidence supporting its effectiveness is growing, methodological flaws limit…

Identifying potentially effective practices for improving outcomes for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex process. In this article, we respond to recent reviews of evidence-based practices for individuals with ASD. We identify possible problems and make suggestions in relation to identifying well-specified practices,…

Adults with autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability often do not engage in healthy levels of physical activity despite its many benefits. We conducted a randomized control trial to evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of the Step It Up program, which used supported self-management strategies, on daily step counts, health…

The number of students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) pursuing postsecondary education is increasing. A mentorship program was developed to help students with ASD navigate the social and academic framework of postsecondary campus life. The present study (a) provides information about a sample of university students with ASD and (b) evaluates…

This study was conducted to examine the effectiveness of a parent education program on decreasing parenting stress and increasing parental confidence and quality of life in parents of Chinese American children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). A pre-, posttest group design was used in this study. A total of nine families of Chinese American…

This community effectiveness trial examined the feasibility and efficacy of a comprehensive psychosocial treatment for 28 children, aged 7 to 10 years with high-functioning autism spectrum disorders (HFASDs). Treatment included instruction and therapeutic activities targeting social skills, face-emotion recognition skills, interest expansion, and…

Self-prompted communication books were used in combination with conversational peer orientation to increase conversational interactions of verbal high school students with autism or autistic-like behavior with their peers without disabilities. Previous investigators have used communication books only with students with autism or intellectual…

A Consumer Satisfaction Survey was administered to 110 persons with severe disabilities involved in a supported employment program. Results indicated most consumers liked their jobs, were happy with supported employment services, and would use them again. However, most also felt their current job was not the career they would like to have…

Adolescents and young adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) frequently experience social isolation and vocational failure. Although social skills groups are vital, relatively few model programs have been developed for this age group. This article reviews the model and evaluation of the Aspirations program, an 8-week social and vocational…

Discusses the importance of teaching communication skills to individuals with severe disabilities and reviews the development and evaluation of Developing Communicative Interactions, a data-based staff training program that supports the development of a prescribed set of interaction skills by interacting communication partners. (Author/CR)

The current study presents preliminary data from an ongoing research project evaluating a summer treatment program for children with Asperger disorder (AD). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a cognitive-behavioral treatment program on the social behaviors of 6- to 13-year-old children with AD. Overall program…

This article provides instruction for caregivers on managing and monitoring psychotropic medication for individuals with autism. Includes 20 questions for caregivers to ask about psychotropic medication, 12 guidelines for caregivers to follow when giving medications, and specific examples of data collection methods to measure the effect of…

Describes "Giant Steps--St. Louis," a program for children with autism characterized by a holistic approach, the use of "invitational" equipment, continuity between home and school, and integration into the neighborhood school for part of each day. Provides a case study showing a child's typical day Program effectiveness is…

This article reviews goal attainment scaling as an alternative method for evaluating treatments for children with autism. It discusses the use of goal attainment scaling as a way to provide a convergent link between outcome goals and program goals within a framework of family-centered practices. A case study is provided. (Author/CR)