There is a lack of validated autism-specific outcome measures for large-scale evaluation of the effectiveness of psycho-educational programmes. To fill this gap the Environment Rating Scale (ERS) was adapted from an interview version to a staff-completed questionnaire version (ERS-Q). The ERS-Q was tested regarding data quality, validity,…

This study assessed the psychometric properties of the Environmental Rating Scale, a measure specifically designed to assess residential treatment programs for individuals with autism. The measure's reliability was demonstrated by assessments of the internal consistency, stability, and interrater reliability. Preliminary analysis of validity…

The document describes a study on autism in Illinois designed to review relevant legislation, conduct on site visits to a number of programs, collect information about prevalence rates, describe the existing system, identify service deficits and gaps, develop a model comprehensive continuum of services from conception through adulthood, and…