Autism

What is Autism?

Autism is a pervasive developmental disorder that is characterized by stereotyped behavior patterns, deficits in social interactions and communication, and unusual responses to sensory experiences. 

Autism is treated with psychosocial interventions, (intense special education programs and behavior therapy) and medication.  Currently medication is used most frequently used to address co-occurring behavior problems, such as aggression, and to improve receptivity to social and academic interventions. 

Treatment Options for Autism

Non-medication Interventions

Behavior Therapy- These approaches help children with autism learn social skills and improve self-control.  Parents and other important caregivers learn to apply clear, consistent, and compelling consequences for adaptive and maladaptive behaviors.  Behavior-management plans can be tailored to the specific needs of children with autism and can he used to address social-behavior problems, tantrums or other forms of aggressive or self-injurious behavior. 

Applied Behavior Analysis-  Teachers and other caregivers work systematically and behaviorally to help children reduce inappropriate behaviors and increase communication, learning, and social relatedness and appropriateness. 

Alternative Interventions- Sensory-integration therapy (SIT) is a controversial, under-researched, but popular treatment for autism that is administered by occupational therapists and focuses on motor and sensory problems. 

• Dietary changes:  Based on the notion that children with autism have food allergies or vitamin deficiencies that exacerbate symptoms, diets that limit gluten and caffeine, and incorporate vitamin B6 are sometimes considered to be helpful. 

Medication Interventions

• Atypical Antipsychotics-  Atypicals, which are the current focus of psychopharmacologic research in autism, have been successful in reducing aggressive and self-injurious behaviors. 

• Antidepressants-  antidepressants are used to diminish self-injurious behavior in children with autism.  Current research is examining the effect of antidepressants on cognition and functioning compared to other psychotropic agents. 

• Stimulants-  These agents are prescribed to help manage behavior issues associated with autism.  They can be effective in reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity, but finding the right dosage takes time.

More autism information:

Autism National Committee:  www.autcom.org

Center for the Advancement of Children's Mental Health:  www.kidsmentalhealth.org

Autism Society of America: www.autism-society.org

The Source:  Autism, Asperger's Syndrome, and Pervasive Developmental Disorders:  www.maapservices.org

Source: Center for the Advancement of Children's Mental Health at Columbia University, New York State Office of Mental Health