Search This Blog

How Important is a Diagnosis?

If you suspect that your child has ASD level 1 (Asperger's), even if he or she is an adult, should they seek a formal diagnosis?

Answer: It depends!



==> Launching Adult Children with Asperger's and High-Functioning Autism: Guide for Parents Who Want to Promote Self-Reliance

Making Your Child's Bedroom More Conducive To Sleep

“Our 5 y.o. boy has been diagnosed with autism (high functioning). Any suggestions on how to make his bedroom more favorable for sleeping? We have been told by the therapist that he may be over-stimulated by the digital gadgets, toys, games, etc., in his room – and that these items are distracting him from falling asleep. This is a plausible theory, because he will get out of bed late into the night to play around. Also, he is easily aroused by the slightest noises through the night.”

It is important that the bed and the bedroom are associated with sleep and are not associated with activity. When young people with High-Functioning Autism or Asperger’s have sleep problems, it is highly recommended that their bed and bedroom activity be limited to sleep only. Also, it's important to make sure that extreme changes in temperature are avoided during the night.



Increasing light is associated with decreases in the release of the neuro-chemical melatonin, which triggers sleep onset. Thus, it is important to get the sunlight flowing in the child’s room as soon as possible in the morning. Conversely, darkening the room at night is critical. When a child’s fear of the dark is an issue, behavioral psychotherapy may be necessary. I also recommend moving the clock so that the child is not watching the time while lying in bed.

Here are a few additional suggestions that will help facilitate a good night’s rest:
  • Cool colors (those from the left side of the color wheel) are thought to provide a sense of calm. Choose one of these for your child’s bedroom, and avoid bright, loud colors that are more exciting than soothing.
  • If your child needs a little light to sleep comfortably, consider adding a couple of nightlights or a dimmer switch rather than having him sleep with a lamp on all the time.
  • Loud pipes might be keeping your child awake when one person makes a bathroom visit in the middle of the night. Look for the cause of any clanging and banging, particularly in a bathroom that may be adjacent to his bedroom.
  • Make sure doors and windows are solid and secure, with no drafts or rattles. 
  • Make sure that rooms adjacent to your child’s bedroom are not home to stereos, televisions or other noisy electronics. Most modern homes don't have completely soundproofed walls, and the bleed-through noise may be keeping him awake.
  • Organize closets and keep your child’s clothing and other personal items in their places. A chaotic, messy room is stressful to the mind. 
  • Select light-blocking window treatments. Even though the sun isn't out, plenty of light can sneak into the bedroom from outside, disrupting your child’s sleep patterns. 
  • Use an air purifier or humidifier to keep air quality at its best. Allergens and excessively dry air can interrupt a child’s sleep and make waking up unpleasant, too. Also, many machines create a white noise that drowns out other distracting sounds, which is often very appealing to children on the autism spectrum.
  • One mother suggests the following: "We also used either a sound machine (played nature sounds) or a CD with relaxing instrumental music to help our son get to sleep or stay asleep. That seemed to help reduce waking up from other people moving around after he went to bed." 




As a side note, many parents report that Melatonin (a hormone secreted by the pineal gland which has been shown to regulate sleep patterns) has been highly beneficial in helping their child with sleep difficulties.  For kids on the autism spectrum, the patterns of melatonin secretion may be irregular, so it is not that they don't produce it, but that they don't produce it at the right times of day. 

Medical Treatment for the Symptoms of High-Functioning Autism

“What medications are used to treat the symptoms of high functioning autism? Which ones have the best track record? And, what are the side effects of these medications?”

There are several medications used to treat the symptoms associated with High-Functioning Autism (HFA) and Asperger’s (AS). Medications may be considered for problematic behaviors in these children and teens, for example:
  • aggression
  • anxiety
  • compulsions
  • depression
  • destructive behavior, or other disruptive behaviors
  • hyperactivity
  • inattention
  • irritability
  • mood lability
  • obsessions
  • perseveration
  • repetitive behaviors
  • self-injurious behavior
  • sleep disturbance
  • stereotypic movements



After medical causes and environmental factors have been ruled out, a trial of medication may be considered if the behavioral symptoms cause significant impairment in functioning and are responsive to behavioral interventions. In some cases, the diagnosis of a comorbid disorder (e.g., major depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, etc.) can be made reasonably, and the child can be treated with medications.

Modifications of diagnostic criteria may be necessary to account for clinical presentations of psychiatric conditions in children with developmental disabilities, and certain tools (e.g., behavior checklists, structured interviews) may be helpful. In other cases, therapists opt to target specific problematic behaviors or symptom-clusters in the absence of a clear comorbid psychiatric diagnosis.

Approximately 45% of kids and teens (and up to 75% of grown-ups) with HFA and AS are treated with psychotropic medication. Older age, lower adaptive skills and social competence, and higher levels of problematic behavior are associated with the likelihood of medication use.

==> How To Prevent Meltdowns and Tantrums In Children With High-Functioning Autism and Asperger's

SSRIs—

Selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), antipsychotic agents, stimulants, and α-adrenergic agonist antihypertensive agents are the most commonly prescribed classes of medications for kids on the autism spectrum. Double-blind, placebo-controlled studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of the SSRIs fluoxetine and fluvoxamine in the treatment of repetitive and other problematic behaviors in young people with HFA and AS. Studies of these and other SSRIs have shown improvements in target symptoms, for example:
  • aggression
  • anxiety
  • aspects of social interaction and language
  • depressive symptoms
  • difficulty with transitions
  • irritability
  • meltdowns
  • repetitive behaviors
  • shutdowns
  • tantrums

Potential side-effects of SSRIs include – but are not limited to – the following: 
  • abdominal discomfort
  • agitation
  • apathy
  • behavioral activation
  • constipation
  • dizziness
  • drowsiness
  • dry mouth
  • fatigue
  • headache
  • hypomania or mania
  • nausea
  • sexual dysfunction
  • sleep difficulties
  • suicidal ideation

Risperidone—

Risperidone has become the first medication for the symptomatic treatment of irritability, aggressive behavior, deliberate self-injury, and tantrums in kids and teens with HFA and AS. Controlled studies have confirmed the short-term effectiveness of risperidone for these disruptive behaviors.

Potential side-effects include – but are not limited to – the following:
  • excessive appetite
  • constipation
  • dry mouth
  • dyslipidemia
  • extrapyramidal symptoms
  • hematologic abnormalities
  • hyperprolactinemia
  • insulin resistance
  • neuroleptic malignant syndrome
  • QTc prolongation
  • sedation
  • seizures
  • tardive dyskinesia
  • urinary retention
  • weight gain

Methylphenidate—

Recent studies of methylphenidate have demonstrated improvement in hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention in kids with HFA and AS. Methylphenidate is effective in some of these young people, but the response rate is lower than that in kids with ADHD, adverse effects are more frequent, and it is unclear whether the results can be generalized to other stimulants.

Potential side-effects of stimulant medications include – but are not limited to – the following:
  • abdominal discomfort
  • appetite reduction
  • delayed sleep onset
  • exacerbation of tics
  • increased anxiety
  • increased blood pressure
  • increased heart rate
  • inhibition of growth
  • irritability
  • jitteriness
  • repetitive behaviors

 ==> Parenting System that Significantly Reduces Defiant Behavior in Teens with Aspergers and High-Functioning Autism

Clonidine—

Studies have documented modest benefits of clonidine in reducing hyperarousal symptoms (e.g., hyperactivity, irritability, outbursts, impulsivity, and repetitive behaviors) in young people on the autism spectrum.

Potential side-effects include – but are not limited to – the following:
  • constipation
  • decreased blood pressure
  • dizziness
  • drowsiness
  • dry mouth
  • irritability
  • sedation

Atomoxetine—

Studies have suggested that atomoxetine may be effective for ADHD–like symptoms in kids and teens on the spectrum. Appetite suppression, dizziness, fatigue, liver injury, mood swings, nausea, and suicidal ideation are among the potential side-effects of atomoxetine.

Melatonin—

Studies suggest that sleep disorders affect 50 to 70 million individuals in the U.S. Sleep disorders exist whenever a lower quality of sleep results in impaired functioning or extreme lethargy. Difficulties initiating and maintaining sleep are very common in young people on the spectrum, affecting about 15-25% of this population.

A large study revealed several of melatonin’s sleep-enhancing benefits. Reviewing 15 studies of sleep in healthy individuals, researchers noted that melatonin significantly reduced sleep latency (i.e., the amount of time needed to fall asleep), while boosting sleep efficiency (i.e., the percentage of time in bed spent asleep) and increasing total sleep duration. Studies demonstrate an important characteristic of melatonin: the hormone exerts its hypnotic (i.e., sleep-inducing) and sedative (i.e., anxiety-relieving) effects, regardless of dosage time.

Produced by the pineal gland, melatonin is a noteworthy hormone that works both as a sleep aid and a potent antioxidant/immune booster. Also, melatonin is a natural sleeping pill that shifts the body clock into the desired direction. When taken between 3:00 and 6:00 PM, melatonin tricks the body into thinking that dusk comes sooner. Thus, AS and HFA kids become sleepy earlier, helping them fall asleep at 10:00 or 11:00 PM, rather than tossing and turning all night.

Potential side-effects include – but are not limited to – the following:
  • abdominal discomfort
  • confusion
  • daytime sleepiness 
  • dizziness 
  • headaches
  • irritability
  • mild anxiety
  • short-lasting feelings of depression

In addition, melatonin supplements can interact with other medications, including:  
  • birth control pills
  • blood-thinning medications (i.e., anticoagulants) 
  • diabetes medications
  • medications that suppress the immune system (i.e., immunosuppressants)



It will be important for future research to address the need for more rigorous evaluation of safety and effectiveness of medication for kids and teens on the spectrum. When medications are used, baseline data regarding behaviors and somatic complaints should be collected, informed consent should be obtained, potential benefits and side-effects should be explained, and potential strategies for dealing with treatment failure or partial response should be reviewed. Also, it is important to have some quantifiable means of assessing the effectiveness of the medication and to obtain input from a variety of sources (e.g., moms and dads, educators, therapists, etc).

Consistent use of validated, treatment-sensitive rating scales and medication side-effect scales is necessary. A wide variety of outcome measures have been used in research studies and in clinical practice to measure problematic behavior treatment effects (e.g., Nisonger Child Behavior Rating Form, Clinical Global Impression Scale, and Aberrant Behavior Checklist).

Click here for references…


More resources for parents of children and teens with High-Functioning Autism and Asperger's:

==> How To Prevent Meltdowns and Tantrums In Children With High-Functioning Autism and Asperger's

==> Parenting System that Significantly Reduces Defiant Behavior in Teens with Aspergers and High-Functioning Autism

==> Launching Adult Children with Asperger's and High-Functioning Autism: Guide for Parents Who Want to Promote Self-Reliance

==> Teaching Social Skills and Emotion Management to Children and Teens with Asperger's and High-Functioning Autism

==> Parenting Children and Teens with High-Functioning Autism: Comprehensive Handbook

==> Unraveling The Mystery Behind Asperger's and High-Functioning Autism: Audio Book


==> Parenting System that Reduces Problematic Behavior in Children with Asperger's and High-Functioning Autism

Great Resources for the Management of Young People on the Autism Spectrum



Below is a list of resources for professionals who work with children and adolescents on the autism spectrum:

1.    Afzal N, Murch S, Thirrupathy K, Berger L, Fagbemi A, Heuschkel R. Constipation with acquired megarectum in children with autism.Pediatrics.2003;112 :939– 942
2.    Aman MG, Lam KS, Collier-Crespin A. Prevalence and patterns of use of psychoactive medicines among individuals with autism in the Autism Society of Ohio. J Autism Dev Disord.2003;33 :527– 534
3.    Aman MG, Novotny S, Samango-Sprouse C, et al. Outcome measures for clinical drug trials in autism. CNS Spectr.2004;9 :36– 47
4.    Aman MG. Management of hyperactivity and other acting-out problems in autism spectrum disorder. Semin Pediatr Neurol.2004;11 :225– 228
5.    American Academy of Pediatrics, Committee on Children With Disabilities. Auditory integration training and facilitated communication for autism. Pediatrics.1998;102 :431– 433
6.    American Academy of Pediatrics, Committee on Children With Disabilities. Counseling families who choose complementary and alternative medicine for their child with chronic illness or disability [published correction appears in Pediatrics. 2001;108:507].Pediatrics.2001;107 :598– 601
7.    American Academy of Pediatrics, Medical Home Initiatives for Children With Special Needs Project Advisory Committee. The medical home.Pediatrics.2004;113(5 suppl) :1545– 1547
8.    American Academy of Pediatrics. Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders [pamphlet]. Elk Grove Village, IL: American Academy of Pediatrics; 2005
9.    American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th Edition, Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Publishing; 2000
10.    American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, Ad Hoc Committee on Autism Spectrum Disorders. Principles for speech-language pathologists in diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of autism spectrum disorders across the life span. Available at:www.asha.org/NR/rdonlyres/D0370FEA-98EF-48EE-A9B6-952913FB131B/0/v3TR_autismLSpan.pdf. Accessed February 22,2007
11.    Amminger GP, Berger GE, Schafer MR, Klier C, Friedrich MH, Feucht M. Omega-3 fatty acids supplementation in children with autism: a double-blind randomized, placebo-controlled pilot study. Biol Psychiatry.2007;61 :551– 553
12.    Anderson SR, Avery DL, DiPietro EK, Edwards GL, Christian WP. Intensive home-based intervention with autistic children. Educ Treat Child.1987;10 :352– 366
13.    Arnold LE, Aman MG, Cook AM, et al. Atomoxetine for hyperactivity in autism spectrum disorders: placebo-controlled crossover pilot trial. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry.2006;45 :1196– 1205
14.    Arnold LE, Vitiello B, McDougle C, et al. Parent-defined target symptoms respond to risperidone in RUPP autism study: customer approach to clinical trials. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry.2003;42:1443– 1450
15.    Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network Surveillance Year 2002 Principal Investigators; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Prevalence of autism spectrum disorders: Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network, 14 sites, United States, 2002. MMWR Surveill Summ.2007;56 :12– 28
16.    Bågenholm A, Gillberg C. Psychosocial effects on siblings of children with autism and mental retardation: a population-based study. J Ment Defic Res.1991;35 :291– 307
17.    Ballaban-Gil K, Tuchman R. Epilepsy and epileptiform EEG: association with autism and language disorders. Ment Retard Dev Disabil Res Rev.2000;6 :300– 308
18.    Baranek GT. Efficacy of sensory and motor interventions for children with autism. J Autism Dev Disord.2002;32 :397– 422
19.    Birnbrauer JS, Leach DJ. The Murdoch Early Intervention Program after 2 years. Behav Change.1993;10 :63– 74
20.    Black C, Kaye JA, Jick H. Relation of childhood gastrointestinal disorders to autism: nested case-control study using data from the UK General Practice Research Database. BMJ.2002;325 :419– 421
21.    Bolman WM, Richmond JA. A double-blind, placebo controlled pilot trial of low dose dimethylglycine in patients with autistic disorder. J Autism Dev Disord.1999;29 :191– 194
22.    Bondy A, Frost L. The picture exchange communication system. Focus Autistic Behav.1994;9 :1– 19
23.    Bondy A, Frost L. The picture exchange communication system. Semin Speech Lang.1998;19 :373– 388
24.    Bosch J, Van Dyke C, Smith SM, Poulton S. Role of medical conditions in the exacerbation of self-injurious behavior: an exploratory study. Ment Retard.1997;35 :124– 130
25.    Bostic JQ, Rho Y. Target-symptom psychopharmacology: between the forest and the trees. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am.2006;15 :289– 302
26.    Bouma R, Schweitzer R. The impact of chronic childhood illness on family stress: a comparison between autism and cystic fibrosis. J Clin Psychol.1990;46 :722– 730
27.    Bowers L. An audit of referrals of children with autistic spectrum disorder to the dietetic service. J Hum Nutr Diet.2002;15 :141– 144
28.    Bregman JD, Zager D, Gerdtz J. Behavioral interventions. In: Volkmar FR, Paul R, Klin A, Cohen D, eds. Handbook of Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorders. 3rd ed. Vol II. Hoboken NJ: John Wiley & Sons;2005:897– 924
29.    Brereton AV, Tonge BJ, Einfeld SL. Psychopathology in children and adolescents with autism compared to young people with intellectual disability. J Autism Dev Disord.2006;36 :863– 870
30.    Brown MJ, Willis T, Omalu B, Leiker R. Deaths resulting from hypocalcemia after administration of edetate disodium: 2003–2005.Pediatrics.2006;118(2) . Available at:www.pediatrics.org/cgi/content/full/118/2/e534
31.    Bruinsma Y, Koegel RL, Koegel LK. Joint attention and children with autism: a review of the literature. Ment Retard Dev Disabil Res Rev.2004;10 :169– 175
32.    Buchsbaum MS, Hollander E, Haznedar MM, et al. Effect of fluoxetine on regional cerebral metabolism in autistic spectrum disorders: a pilot study. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol.2001;4 :119– 125
33.    Buitelaar JK, van der Gaag RJ, van der Hoeven J. Buspirone in the management of anxiety and irritability in children with pervasive developmental disorders: results of an open-label study. J Clin Psychiatry.1998;59 :56– 59
34.    Campbell JM. Efficacy of behavioral interventions for reducing problem behavior in persons with autism: a quantitative synthesis of single-subject research. Res Dev Disabil.2003;24 :120– 138
35.    Canitano R, Luchetti A, Zappella M. Epilepsy, electroencephalographic abnormalities, and regression in children with autism. J Child Neurol.2005;20 :27– 31
36.    Cardinal DN, Hanson D, Wakeham J. Investigation of authorship in facilitated communication. Ment Retard.1996;34 :231– 242
37.    Challman TD, Voigt RG, Myers SM. Nonstandard therapies in developmental disabilities. In: Accardo PJ, ed. Capute & Accardo's Neurodevelopmental Disabilities in Infancy and Childhood: Vol I. Neurodevelopmental Diagnosis and Treatment. 3rd ed. Baltimore, MD: Paul H. Brookes; 2008:721– 743
38.    Cheng-Shannon J, McGough JJ, Pataki C, McCracken JT. Second-generation antipsychotic medications in children and adolescents. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol.2004;14 :372– 394
39.    Chez MG, Chang M, Krasne V, Coughlan C, Kominsky M, Schwartz A. Frequency of epileptiform EEG abnormalities in a sequential screening of autistic patients with no known clinical epilepsy from 1996 to 2005.Epilepsy Behav.2006;8 :267– 271
40.    Christison GW, Ivany K. Elimination diets in autism spectrum disorders: any wheat amidst the chaff? J Dev Behav Pediatr.2006;27(2 suppl) :S162– S171
41.    Christodulu KV, Durand VM. Reducing bedtime disturbance and night waking using positive bedtime routines and sleep restriction. Focus Autism Other Dev Disabl.2004;19 :130– 139
42.    Cohen H, Amerine-Dickens M, Smith T. Early intensive behavioral treatment: replication of the UCLA model in a community setting. J Dev Behav Pediatr.2006;27(2 suppl) :S145– S155
43.    Connor DF, Ozbayrak KR, Benjamin S, Ma Y, Fletcher KE. A pilot study of nadolol for overt aggression in developmentally delayed individuals. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry.1997;36 :826– 834
44.    Cooley WC. Redefining primary pediatric care for children with special health care needs: the primary care medical home. Curr Opin Pediatr.2004;16 :689– 692
45.    Croen LA, Najjar DV, Ray GT, Lotspeich L, Bernal P. A comparison of health care utilization and costs of children with and without autism spectrum disorders in a large group-model health plan.Pediatrics.2006;118(4) . Available at:www.pediatrics.org/cgi/content/full/118/4/e1203
46.    Dawson G, Osterling J. Early intervention in autism. In: Guralnick MJ, ed. The Effectiveness of Early Intervention: Second Generation Research. Baltimore, MD: Brookes; 1997:307– 326
47.    Dawson G, Watling R. Interventions to facilitate auditory, visual, and motor integration in autism: a review of the evidence. J Autism Dev Disord.2000;30 :415– 421
48.    DelGiudice-Asch G, Simon L, Schmeidler J, Cunningham-Rundles C, Hollander E. Brief report: a pilot open clinical trial of intravenous immunoglobulin in childhood autism. J Autism Dev Disord.1999;29 :157– 160
49.    DeLong R. Children with autistic spectrum disorder and a family history of affective disorder. Dev Med Child Neurol.1994;36 :674– 687
50.    DeMyer MK, Hingtgen JN, Jackson RK. Infantile autism reviewed: a decade of research. Schizophr Bull.1981;7 :388– 451
51.    Dolske MC, Spollen J, McKay S, Lancashire E, Tolbert L. A preliminary trial of ascorbic acid as supplemental therapy for autism. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry.1993;17 :765– 774
52.    Dosreis S, Weiner CL, Johnson L, Newschaffer CJ. Autism spectrum disorder screening and management practices among general pediatric providers. J Dev Behav Pediatr.2006;27(2 suppl) :S88– S94
53.    Dumas JE, Wolf LC, Fisman SN, et al. Parenting stress, child behavior problems, and dysphoria in parents of children with autism, Down syndrome, behavior disorders, and normal development.Exceptionality.1991;2 :97– 110
54.    Eikeseth S, Smith T, Jahr E, Eldevik S. Intensive behavioral treatment at school for 4- to 7-year-old children with autism: a 1-year comparison controlled study. Behav Modif.2002;26 :49– 68
55.    Elder JH, Shankar M, Shuster J, Theriaque D, Burns S, Sherill L. The gluten-free, casein-free diet in autism: results of a preliminary double blind clinical trial. J Autism Dev Disord.2006;36 :413– 420
56.    Eldevik S, Eikeseth S, Jahr E, Smith T. Effects of low-intensity behavioral treatment for children with autism and mental retardation. J Autism Dev Disord.2006;36 :211– 224
57.    Erickson CA, Stigler KA, Corkins MR, Posey DJ, Fitzgerald JF, McDougle CJ. Gastrointestinal factors in autistic disorder: a critical review. J Autism Dev Disord.2005;35 :713– 727
58.    Fankhauser MP, Karumanchi VC, German ML, Yates A, Karumanchi SD. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study of the efficacy of transdermal clonidine in autism. J Clin Psychiatry.1992;53 :77– 82
59.    Findling RL, Maxwell K, Scotese-Wojtila L, Huang J, Yamashita T, Wiznitzer M. High-dose pyridoxine and magnesium administration in children with autistic disorder: an absence of salutary effects in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. J Autism Dev Disord.1997;27:467– 478
60.    Fombonne E, Chakrabarti S. No evidence for a new variant of measles-mumps-rubella-induced autism. Pediatrics.2001;108(4) . Available at:www.pediatrics.org/cgi/content/full/108/4/e58
61.    Fombonne E, Zakarian R, Bennett A, Meng L, McLean-Heywood D. Pervasive developmental disorders in Montreal, Quebec, Canada: prevalence and links with immunizations. Pediatrics.2006;118(1) . Available at: www.pediatrics.org/cgi/content/full/118/1/e139
62.    FREE Full Text
63.    Giannotti F, Cortesi F, Cerquiglini A, Bernabei P. An open-label study of controlled-release melatonin in treatment of sleep disorders in children with autism. J Autism Dev Disord.2006;36 :741– 752
64.    Gold C, Wigram T, Elefant C. Music therapy in autistic spectrum disorder. Cochrane Database Syst Rev.2006;(2) :CD004381
65.    Gold N. Depression and social adjustment in siblings of boys with autism. J Autism Dev Disord.1993;23 :147– 163
66.    Goldstein H. Communication intervention for children with autism: a review of treatment efficacy. J Autism Dev Disord.2002;32 :373– 396
67.    Gray C, McAndrew S. My Social Stories Book. London, England: Jessica Kingsley; 2002
68.    Gray DE. Ten years on: a longitudinal study of families of children with autism. J Intellect Dev Disabil.2002;27 :215– 222
69.    Greenspan SI, Wieder S. Developmental patterns and outcomes in infants and children with disorders in relating and communicating: a chart review of 200 cases of children with autistic spectrum diagnoses. J Dev Learn Disord.1997;1 :87– 141
70.    Gupta S, Aggarwal S, Heads C. Dysregulated immune system in children with autism: beneficial effects of intravenous immune globulin on autistic characteristics. J Autism Dev Disord.1996;26 :439– 452
71.    Gupta VB. Complementary and alternative treatments for autism. In: Gupta VB, ed. Autistic Spectrum Disorders in Children (Pediatric Habilitation Series Volume 12). New York, NY: Marcel Dekker; 2004:239– 254
72.    Gutstein SE, Sheely RK. Relationship Development Intervention With Children, Adolescents, and Adults. New York, NY: Jessica Kingsley; 2002
73.    Handen BL, Johnson CR, Lubetsky M. Efficacy of methylphenidate among children with autism and symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. J Autism Dev Disord.2000;30 :245– 255
74.    Handleman JS, Harris SL. Preschool Education Programs for Children With Autism. 2nd ed. Austin, TX: Pro-Ed; 2000
75.    Hardan AY, Jou RJ, Handen BL. A retrospective assessment of topiramate in children and adolescents with pervasive developmental disorders. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol.2004;14 :426– 432
76.    Harrington JW, Rosen L, Garnecho A, Patrick PA. Parental perceptions and use of complementary and alternative medicine practices for children with autistic spectrum disorders in private practice. J Dev Behav Pediatr.2006;27 :S156– S161
77.    Harris SL, Handleman JS, Jennett HK. Models of educational intervention for students with autism: home, center, and school-based programming. In: Volkmar FR, Paul R, Klin A, Cohen D, eds. Handbook of Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorders. 3rd ed. Vol II. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons; 2005:1043– 1054
78.    Hollander E, Dolgoff-Kaspar R, Cartwright C, Rawitt R, Novotny S. An open trial of divalproex sodium in autism spectrum disorders. J Clin Psychiatry.2001;62 :530– 534
79.    Hollander E, Phillips A, Chaplin W, et al. A placebo controlled crossover trial of liquid fluoxetine on repetitive behaviors in childhood and adolescent autism. Neuropsychopharmacology.2005;30 :582– 589
80.    Hollander E, Phillips AT, Yeh CC. Targeted treatments for symptom domains in child and adolescent autism. Lancet.2003;362 :732– 734
81.    Hollander E, Soorya L, Wasserman S, Esposito K, Chaplin W, Anagnostou E. Divalproex sodium vs. placebo in the treatment of repetitive behaviours in autism spectrum disorder. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol.2006;9 :209– 213
82.    Horner RH, Carr EG, Strain PS, Todd AW, Reed HK. Problem behavior interventions for young children with autism: a research synthesis. J Autism Dev Disord.2002;32 :423– 446
83.    Horvath K, Papadimitriou JC, Rabsztyn A, Drachenberg C, Tildon JT. Gastrointestinal abnormalities in children with autistic disorder. J Pediatr.1999;135 :559– 563
84.    Horvath K, Perman JA. Autism and gastrointestinal symptoms. Curr Gastroenterol Rep.2002;4 :251– 258
85.    Howard JS, Sparkman CR, Cohen HG, Green G, Stanislaw H. A comparison of intensive behavior analytic and eclectic treatments for young children with autism. Res Dev Disabil.2005;26 :359– 383
86.    Howlin P, Goode S, Hutton J, Rutter M. Adult outcome for children with autism. J Child Psychol Psychiatry.2004;45 :212– 229
87.    Howlin P. Outcomes in autism spectrum disorders. In: Volkmar FR, Paul R, Klin A, Cohen D, eds. Handbook of Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorders. 3rd ed. Vol II. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons;2005:201– 220
88.    Hrdlicka M, Komarek V, Propper L, et al. Not EEG abnormalities but epilepsy is associated with autistic regression and mental functioning in childhood autism. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry.2004;13 :209– 213
89.    Hyman SL, Levy SE. Introduction: novel therapies in developmental disabilities—hope, reason, and evidence. Ment Retard Dev Disabil Res Rev.2005;11 :107– 109
90.    Ingrassia A, Turk J. The use of clonidine for severe and intractable sleep problems in children with neurodevelopmental disorders: a case series. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry.2005;14 :34– 40
91.    Jacobson JW, Mulick JA, Schwartz AA. A history of facilitated communication: science, pseudoscience, and antiscience. Science Working Group on Facilitated Communication. Am Psychol.1995;50 :750– 765
92.    James SJ, Cutler P, Melnyks S, et al. Metabolic biomarkers of increased oxidative stress and impaired methylation capacity in children with autism. Am J Clin Nutr.2004;80 :1611– 1617
93.    Jan JE, Freeman RD. Melatonin therapy for circadian rhythm sleep disorders in children with multiple disabilities: what have we learned in the last decade? Dev Med Child Neurol.2004;46 :776– 782
94.    Jaselskis CA, Cook EH, Fletcher E, Leventhal BL. Clonidine treatment of hyperactive and impulsive children with autistic disorder. J Clin Psychopharmacol.1992;12 :322– 327
95.    Johnson CP, Myers SM; American Academy of Pediatrics, Council on Children With Disabilities. Identification and evaluation of children with autism spectrum disorders. Pediatrics.2007;120 :1183– 1215
96.    Jou RJ, Handen BL, Hardan AY. Retrospective assessment of atomoxetine in children and adolescents with pervasive developmental disorders. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol.2005;15 :325– 330
97.    Kagan-Kushnir T, Roberts SW, Snead OC III. Screening electroencephalograms in autism spectrum disorders: evidence-based guideline. J Child Neurol.2005;20 :197– 206
98.    Kasari C, Freeman S, Paparella T. Joint attention and symbolic play in young children with autism: a randomized controlled intervention study. J Child Psychol Psychiatry.2006;47 :611– 620
99.    Kerbeshian J, Burd L, Fisher W. Lithium carbonate in the treatment of two patients with infantile autism and atypical bipolar symptomatology. J Clin Psychopharmacol.1987;7 :401– 405
100.    Kern JK, Miller VS, Cauller PL, Kendall PR, Mehta PJ, Dodd M. Effectiveness of N,N-dimethylglycine in autism and pervasive developmental disorder. J Child Neurol.2001;16 :169– 173
101.    Klin A, Volkmar FR. Treatment and intervention guidelines for individuals with Asperger syndrome. In: Klin A, Volkmar FR, Sparrow SS, eds. Asperger Syndrome. New York, NY: Guilford Press; 2000:340– 366
102.    Koegel LK. Interventions to facilitate communication in autism. J Autism Dev Disord.2000;30 :383– 391
103.    Konstantareas MM, Lunsky YJ. Sociosexual knowledge, experience, attitudes, and interests of individuals with autistic disorder and developmental delay. J Autism Dev Disord.1997;27 :397– 413
104.    Kowatch RA, DelBello MD. Pediatric bipolar disorder: emerging diagnostic and treatment approaches. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am.2006;15 :73– 108
105.    Krasny L, Williams BJ, Provencal S, Ozonoff S. Social skills interventions for the autism spectrum: essential ingredients and a model curriculum.Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am.2003;12 :107– 122
106.    Kuddo T, Nelson KB. How common are gastrointestinal disorders in children with autism? Curr Opin Pediatr.2003;15 :339– 343
107.    Kulman G, Lissoni P, Rovelli F, Roselli MG, Brivio, Sequeri P. Evidence of pineal endocrine hypofunction in autistic children. Neuro Endocrinol Lett.2000;21 :31– 34
108.    La Camera RG, La Camera AC. Routine health care. In: Cohen DJ, Volkmar FR, eds. Handbook of Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorders. 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons; 1997:730– 740
109.    Langworthy-Lam KS, Aman MG, Van Bourgondien ME. Prevalence and patterns of use of psychoactive medicines in individuals with autism in the autism society of North Carolina. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol.2002;12 :311– 321
110.    Layton TL. Language training with autistic children using four different modes of presentation. J Commun Disord.1988;21 :333– 350
111.    Lee DO. Menstrually related self-injurious behavior in adolescents with autism. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry.2004;43 :1193
112.    Levy SE, Hyman SL. Novel treatments for autistic spectrum disorders.Ment Retard Dev Disabil Res Rev.2005;11 :131– 142
113.    Levy SE, Mandell DS, Merhar S, Ittenbach RF, Pinto-Martin JA. Use of complementary and alternative medicine among children recently diagnosed with autistic spectrum disorder. J Dev Behav Pediatr.2003;24:418– 423
114.    Leyfer OT, Folstein SE, Bacalman S, et al. Comorbid psychiatric disorders in children with autism: interview development and rates of disorders. J Autism Dev Disord.2006;36 :849– 861
115.    Lightdale JR, Siegel B, Heyman MB. Gastrointestinal symptoms in autistic children. Clin Perspect Gastroenterol.2001;1 :56– 58
116.    Liptak GS, Orlando M, Yingling JT, et al. Satisfaction with primary health care received by families of children with developmental disabilities. J Pediatr Health Care.2006;20 :245– 252
117.    Liptak GS, Stuart T, Auinger P. Health care utilization and expenditures for children with autism: data from U.S. national samples. J Autism Dev Disord.2006;36 :871– 879
118.    Lord C, Schopler E. The role of age at assessment, developmental level, and test in the stability of intelligence scores in young autistic children. J Autism Dev Disord.1989;19 :483– 499
119.    Lorimer PA, Simpson RL, Myles BS, et al. The use of social stories as a preventative behavioral intervention in a home setting with a child with autism. J Posit Behav Interv.2002;4 :53– 60
120.    Lovaas OI, ed. Teaching Individuals With Developmental Delays: Basic Intervention Techniques. Austin, TX: Pro-Ed; 2003
121.    Lovaas OI. Behavioral treatment and normal educational and intellectual functioning in young autistic children. J Consult Clin Psychol.1987;55 :3– 9
122.    Mahoney G, McDonald J. Responsive Teaching: Parent-Mediated Developmental Intervention. Baltimore, MD: Paul H. Brookes; 2003
123.    Mahoney G, Perales F. Relationship-focused early intervention with children with pervasive developmental disorders and other disabilities: a comparative study. J Dev Behav Pediatr.2005;26 :77– 85
124.    Malow BA, McGrew SG, Harvey M, et al. Impact of treating sleep apnea in a child with autism spectrum disorder. Pediatr Neurol.2006;34 :325– 328
125.    Malow BA. Sleep disorders, epilepsy, and autism. Ment Retard Dev Disabil Res Rev.2004;10 :122– 125
126.    Mandell DS, Cao J, Ittenbach R, Pinto-Martin J. Medicaid expenditures for children with autistic spectrum disorders: 1994 to 1999. J Autism Dev Disord.2006;36 :475– 485
127.    Marans WD, Rubin E, Laurent A. Addressing social communication skills in individuals with high-functioning autism and Asperger syndrome: critical priorities in educational programming. In: Volkmar FR, Paul R, Klin A, Cohen D, eds. Handbook of Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorders. 3rd ed. Vol II. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons; 2005:977– 1002
128.    Marcus LM, Kunce LJ, Schopler E. Working with families. In: Volkmar FR, Paul R, Klin A, Cohen D, eds. Handbook of Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorders. 3rd ed. Vol II. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons;2005:1055– 1086
129.    Marcus LM, Lansing M, Andrews CE, Schopler E. Improvement of teaching effectiveness in parents of autistic children. J Am Acad Child Psychiatry.1978;17 :625– 639
130.    Mastergeorge AM, Rogers SJ, Corbett BA, et al. Nonmedical interventions for autism spectrum disorders. In: Ozonoff S, Rogers SJ, Hendren RL, eds. Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Research Review for Practitioners. Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Publishing;2003:133– 160
131.    Matson JL, Benavidez DA, Compton LS, Paclawskyj T, Baglio C. Behavioral treatment of autistic persons: a review of research from 1980 to the present. Res Dev Disabil.1996;17 :433– 465
132.    McConnell S. Interventions to facilitate social interaction for young children with autism: review of available research and recommendations for educational intervention and future research. J Autism Dev Disord.2002;32 :351– 372
133.    McCracken JT, McGough J, Shah B, et al. Risperidone in children with autism and serious behavioral problems. N Engl J Med.2002;347 :314– 321
134.    McDougle CJ, Naylor ST, Cohen DJ, Volkmar FR, Heninger GR, Price LH. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study of fluvoxamine in adults with autistic disorder. Arch Gen Psychiatry.1996;53 :1001– 1008
135.    McDougle CJ, Scahill L, Aman MG, et al. Risperidone for the core symptom domains of autism: results from the study by the Autism Network of the Research Units on Pediatric Psychopharmacology. Am J Psychiatry.2005;162 :1142– 1148
136.    McEachin JJ, Smith T, Lovaas OI. Long-term outcome for children with autism who received early intensive behavioral treatment. Am J Ment Retard.1993;97 :359– 372
137.    Mehta UC, Patel I, Castello FV. EEG sedation for children with autism. J Dev Behav Pediatr.2004;25 :102– 104
138.    Melmed RD, Schneider CK, Fabes RA, Philips J, Reichelt K. Metabolic markers and gastrointestinal symptoms in children with autism and related disorders [abstract]. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr.2000;31(suppl 2):S31
139.    Meltzer LJ, Mindell JA. Nonpharmacologic treatments for pediatric sleeplessness. Pediatr Clin North Am.2004;51 :135– 151
140.    Mesibov GB, Shea V, Schopler E. The TEACCH Approach to Autism Spectrum Disorders. New York, NY: Kluwer Academic/Plenum; 2005
141.    Mesibov GB. Formal and informal measures on the effectiveness or the TEACCH programme. Autism.1997;1 :25– 35
142.    Millar DC, Light JC, Schlosser RW. The impact of augmentative and alternative communication intervention on the speech production of individuals with developmental disabilities: a research review. J Speech Lang Hear Res.2006;49 :248– 264
143.    Milward C, Ferriter M, Calver S, et al. Gluten- and casein-free diets for autistic spectrum disorder. Cochrane Database Syst Rev.2004;(2):CD003498
144.    Molloy CA, Manning-Courtney P. Prevalence of chronic gastrointestinal symptoms in children with autism and autistic spectrum disorders.Autism.2003;7 :165– 171
145.    Moore ML, Eichner SF, Jones JR. Treating functional impairment of autism with selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors. Ann Pharmacother.2004;38 :1515– 1519
146.    Mostert MP. Facilitated communication since 1995: a review of published studies. J Autism Dev Disord.2001;31 :287– 313
147.    Mudford OC, Cross BA, Breen S, et al. Auditory integration training for children with autism: no behavioral benefits detected. Am J Ment Retard.2000;105 :118– 129
148.    Murphy N. Sexuality in children and adolescents with disabilities. Dev Med Child Neurol.2005;47 :640– 644
149.    Murphy NA, Elias ER; American Academy of Pediatrics, Council on Children With Disabilities. Sexuality of children and adolescents with developmental disabilities. Pediatrics.2006;118 :398– 403
150.    Myers SM, Challman TD. Psychopharmacology: an approach to management in autism and intellectual disabilities. In: Accardo PJ, ed.Capute & Accardo's Neurodevelopmental Disabilities in Infancy and Childhood: Vol I. Neurodevelopmental Diagnosis and Treatment. 3rd ed. Baltimore, MD: Paul H. Brookes; 2008:577– 614
151.    Myers SM. The status of pharmacotherapy for autism spectrum disorders. Expert Opin Pharmacother.2007;8 :1579– 1603
152.    Namerow LB, Thomas P, Bostic JQ, Prince J, Monuteaux MC. Use of citalopram in pervasive developmental disorders. J Dev Behav Pediatr.2003;24 :104– 108
153.    National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Expanding horizons of healthcare: five year strategic plan 2001–2005. Washington, DC: US Department of Health and Human Services; 2000
154.    National Research Council, Committee on Educational Interventions for Children with Autism. Educating Children With Autism. Lord C, McGee JP, eds. Washington, DC: National Academies Press; 2001
155.    Nickel R. Controversial therapies for young children with developmental disabilities. Infants Young Child.1996;8 :29– 40
156.    Nye C, Brice A. Combined vitamin B6-magnesium treatment in autism spectrum disorder. Cochrane Database Syst Rev.2005;(4) :CD003497
157.    Olley JG. Curriculum and classroom structure. In: Volkmar FR, Paul R, Klin A, Cohen D, eds. Handbook of Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorders. 3rd ed. Vol II. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons; 2005:863– 881
158.    O'Neill R, Horner R, Albin R, et al. Functional Assessment and Program Development for Problem Behavior: A Practical Handbook. Pacific Grove, CA: Brookes/Cole Publishing; 1996
159.    Owens JA, Babcock D, Blumer J, et al. The use of pharmacotherapy in the treatment of pediatric insomnia in primary care: rational approaches—a consensus meeting summary. J Clin Sleep Med.2005;1 :49– 59
160.    Owley T, Walton L, Salt J, et al. An open-label trial of escitalopram in pervasive developmental disorders. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry.2005;44 :343– 348
161.    Oyane NM, Bjorvatn B. Sleep disturbances in adolescents and young adults with autism and Asperger syndrome. Autism.2005;9 :83– 94
162.    Ozonoff S, Cathcart K. Effectiveness of a home program intervention for young children with autism. J Autism Dev Disord.1998;28 :25– 32
163.    Paavonen EJ, Nieminen-von Wendt T, Vanhala R, Aronen ET, von Wendt L. Effectiveness of melatonin in the treatment of sleep disturbances in children with Asperger disorder. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol.2003;13 :83– 95
164.    Patzold LM, Richdale AL, Tonge BJ. An investigation into sleep characteristics of children with autism and Asperger's disorder. J Paediatr Child Health.1998;34 :528– 533
165.    Paul R, Sutherland D. Enhancing early language in children with autism spectrum disorders. In: Volkmar FR, Paul R, Klin A, Cohen D, eds.Handbook of Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorders. 3rd ed. Vol II. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons; 2005:946– 976
166.    Pavone P, Incorpora G, Fiumara A, Parano E, Trifiletti RR, Ruggieri M. Epilepsy is not a prominent feature of primary autism.Neuropediatrics.2004;35 :207– 210
167.    Perry, DW, Marston GM, Hinder SA. The phenomenology of depressive illness in people with a learning disability and autism. Autism.2001;5:265– 275
168.    Phillips L, Appleton RE. Systematic review of melatonin treatment in children with neurodevelopmental disabilities and sleep impairment. Dev Med Child Neurol.2004;46 :771– 775
169.    Pickett JA, Paculdo DR, Shavelle RM, Strauss DJ. 1998–2002 update on “Causes of Death in Autism. ” J Autism Dev Disord.2006;36 :287– 288
170.    Plioplys AV. Intravenous immunoglobulin treatment of children with autism. J Child Neurol.1998;13 :79– 82
171.    Polimeni MA, Richdale AL, Francis AJ. A survey of sleep problems in autism, Asperger's disorder and typically developing children. J Intellect Disabil Res.2005;49 :260– 268
172.    Posey DJ, Erickson CA, Stigler KA, McDougle CJ. The use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in autism and related disorders. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol.2006;16 :181– 186
173.    Posey DJ, Guenin KD, Kohn AE, Swiezy NB, McDougle CJ. A naturalistic open-label study of mirtazapine in autistic and other pervasive developmental disorders. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol.2001;11:267– 277
174.    Posey DJ, McDougle CJ. The pharmacotherapy of target symptoms associated with autistic disorder and other pervasive developmental disorders. Harv Rev Psychiatry.2000;8 :45– 63
175.    Posey DJ, Puntney JI, Sasher TM, Kem DL, McDougle CJ. Guanfacine treatment of hyperactivity and inattention in pervasive developmental disorders: a retrospective analysis of 80 cases. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol.2004;14 :233– 241
176.    Posey DJ, Wiegand RE, Wilkerson J, Maynard M, Stigler KA, McDougle CJ. Open-label atomoxetine for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms associated with high-functioning pervasive developmental disorders. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol.2006;16 :599– 610
177.    Quintana H, Birmaher B, Stedge D, et al. Use of methylphenidate in the treatment of children with autistic disorder. J Autism Dev Disord.1995;25:283– 294
178.    Ratey JJ, Mikkelsen E, Sorgi P, et al. Autism: the treatment of aggressive behaviors. J Clin Psychopharmacol.1987;7 :35– 41
179.    Reed MD, Findling RL. Overview of current management of sleep disturbances in children: I—pharmacotherapy. Curr Ther Res.2002;63(suppl B) :B18– B37
180.    Research Units on Pediatric Psychopharmacology Autism Network. Randomized, controlled, crossover trial of methylphenidate in pervasive developmental disorders with hyperactivity. Arch Gen Psychiatry.2005;62:1266– 1274
181.    Research Units on Pediatric Psychopharmacology Autism Network. Risperidone treatment of autistic disorder: longer-term benefits and blinded discontinuation after 6 months. Am J Psychiatry.2005;162 :1361– 1369
182.    Reynhout G, Carter M. Social stories for children with disabilities. J Autism Dev Disord.2006;36 :445– 469
183.    Rogers SJ, DiLalla DL. A comparative study of the effects of a developmentally based instructional model on young children with autism and young children with other disorders of behavior and development. Top Early Child Spec Educ.1991;11 :29– 47
184.    Rogers SJ, Herbison JM, Lewis HC, et al. An approach for enhancing the symbolic, communicative, and interpersonal functioning of young children with autism or severe emotional handicaps. J Div Early Child.1986;10 :135– 148
185.    Rogers SJ, Lewis H. An effective day treatment model for young children with pervasive developmental disorders. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry.1989;28 :207– 214
186.    Rogers SJ, Lewis HC, Reis K. An effective procedure for training early special education teams to implement a model program. J Div Early Child.1987;11 :180– 188
187.    Rogers SJ, Ozonoff S. Annotation: what do we know about sensory dysfunction in autism? A critical review of the empirical evidence. J Child Psychol Psychiatry.2005;46 :1255– 1268
188.    Rogers SJ. Empirically supported comprehensive treatments for young children with autism. J Clin Child Psychol.1998;27 :168– 179
189.    Rogers SJ. Interventions that facilitate socialization in children with autism. J Autism Dev Disord.2000;30 :399– 409
190.    Rugino TA, Samsock TC. Levetiracetam in autistic children: an open-label study. J Dev Behav Pediatr.2002;23 :225– 230
191.    Sallows GO, Graupner TD. Intensive behavioral treatment for children with autism: four-year outcome and predictors. Am J Ment Retard.2005;110:417– 438
192.    Sandler A. Placebo effects in developmental disabilities: implications for research and practice. Ment Retard Dev Disabil Res Rev.2005;11 :164– 170
193.    Sankar E. Initial treatment of epilepsy with antiepileptic drugs: pediatric issues. Neurology.2004;63(10 suppl 4) :S30– S39
194.    Scahill L, Aman MG, McDougle CJ, et al. A prospective open trial of guanfacine in children with pervasive developmental disorders. Research Units on Pediatric Psychopharmacology (RUPP) Autism Network. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol.2006;16 :589– 598
195.    Schaaf RC, Miller LJ. Occupational therapy using a sensory integrative approach for children with developmental disabilities. Ment Retard Dev Disabil Res Rev.2005;11 :143– 148
196.    Schepis MM, Reid DH, Behrmann MM, Sutton KA. Increasing communicative interactions of young children with autism using a voice output communication aid and naturalistic teaching. J Appl Behav Anal.1998;31 :561– 578
197.    Schopler E, Mesibov GB, Baker A. Evaluation of treatment for autistic children and their parents. J Am Acad Child Psychiatry.1982;21 :262– 267
198.    Schreck KA, Mulick JA, Smith AF. Sleep problems as possible predictors of intensified symptoms of autism. Res Dev Disabil.2004;25 :57– 66
199.    Schreibman L, Ingersoll B. Behavioral interventions to promote learning in individuals with autism. In: Volkmar FR, Paul R, Klin A, Cohen D, eds.Handbook of Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorders. 3rd ed. Vol II. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons; 2005:882– 896
200.    Seltzer MM, Shattuck P, Abbeduto L, Greenberg JS. Trajectory of development in adolescents and adults with autism. Ment Retard Dev Disabil Res Rev.2004;10 :234– 247
201.    Shannon M, Graef JW. Lead intoxication in children with pervasive developmental disorders. J Toxicol Clin Toxicol.1996;34 :177– 181
202.    Shavelle RM, Strauss DJ, Pickett J. Causes of death in autism. J Autism Dev Disord.2001;31 :569– 576
203.    Shea S, Turgay A, Carroll A, et al. Risperidone in the treatment of disruptive behavioral symptoms in children with autistic and other pervasive developmental disorders. Pediatrics.2004;114(5) . Available at:www.pediatrics.org/cgi/content/full/114/5/e634
204.    Short AB. Short-term treatment outcome using parents as co-therapists for their own autistic children. J Child Psychol Psychiatry.1984;25 :443– 458
205.    Sibinga EM, Ottolini MC, Duggan AK, Wilson MH. Parent-pediatrician communication about complementary and alternative medicine use for children. Clin Pediatr (Phila).2004;43 :367– 373
206.    Sinha Y, Silove N, Wheeler D, Williams K. Auditory integration training and other sound therapies for autism spectrum disorders. Cochrane Database Syst Rev.2004;(1) :CD003681
207.    Sinha Y, Silove N, Wheeler D, Williams K. Auditory integration training and other sound therapies for autism spectrum disorders: a systematic review. Arch Dis Child.2006;91 :1018– 1022
208.    Smith MD, Haas PJ, Belcher RG. Facilitated communication: the effects of facilitator knowledge and level of assistance on output. J Autism Dev Disord.1994;24 :357– 367
209.    Smith T, Groen AD, Wynne JW. Randomized trial of intensive early intervention for children with pervasive developmental disorder. Am J Ment Retard.2000;105 :269– 285
210.    Smith T, Perry A. A sibling support group for brothers and sisters of children with autism. J Dev Disabil.2005;11 :77– 88
211.    Smith T. Outcome of early intervention for children with autism. Clin Psychol Sci Pract.1999;6 :33– 49
212.    Smits MG, van Stel HF, van der Heijden K, Meijer AM, Coenan AM, Kerkhof GA. Melatonin improves health status and sleep in children with idiopathic chronic sleep-onset insomnia: a randomized placebo-controlled trial. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry.2003;42 :1286– 1293
213.    Steingard R, Biederman J. Lithium responsive manic-like symptoms in two individuals with autism and mental retardation. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry.1987;26 :932– 935
214.    Steingard RJ, Connor DF, Au T. Approaches to psychopharmacology. In: Bauman ML, Kemper TL, eds. The Neurobiology of Autism. 2nd ed. Baltimore, MD: Johns Hopkins University Press; 2005:79– 102
215.    Stigler KA, Posey DJ, McDougle CJ. Ramelteon for insomnia in two youths with autistic disorder. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol.2006;16:631– 636
216.    Sturmey P. Secretin is an ineffective treatment for pervasive developmental disabilities: a review of 15 double-blind randomized controlled trials. Res Dev Disabil.2005;26 :87– 97
217.    Sugie Y, Sugie H, Fukuda T, et al. Clinical efficacy of fluvoxamine and functional polymorphism in a serotonin transporter gene on childhood autism. J Autism Dev Disord.2005;35 :377– 385
218.    Syzmanski LS, King B, Goldberg B, et al. Diagnosis of mental disorders in people with mental retardation. In: Reiss S, Aman MG, eds.Psychotropic Medications and Developmental Disabilities: The International Consensus Handbook. Columbus, OH: Ohio State University Nisonger Center; 1998:3– 17
219.    Taylor B, Miller E, Lingam R, Andrews N, Simmons A, Stowe J. Measles, mumps, and rubella vaccination and bowel problems or developmental regression in children with autism: population-based study.BMJ.2002;324 :393– 396
220.    Taylor BA, Jasper S. Teaching programs to increase peer interaction. In: Maurice C, Green G, Foxx RM, eds. Making a Difference: Behavioral Intervention for Autism. Austin, TX: Pro-Ed; 2001:97– 162
221.    Taylor BA. Teaching peer social skills to children with autism. In: Maurice C, Green G, Foxx RM, eds. Making a Difference: Behavioral Intervention for Autism. Austin, TX: Pro-Ed; 2001:83– 96
222.    Tordjman S, Anderson GM, Pichard N, Charbuy H, Touitou Y. Nocturnal excretion of 6-sulphatoxymelatonin in children and adolescents with autistic disorder. Biol Psychiatry.2005;57 :134– 138
223.    Torrente F, Anthony A, Heuschkel RB, Thomson MA, Ashwood P, Murch SH. Focal-enhanced gastritis in regressive autism with features distinct from Crohn's and Helicobacter pylori gastritis. Am J Gastroenterol.2004;99 :598– 605
224.    Towbin KE. Strategies for pharmacologic treatment of high functioning autism and Asperger syndrome. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am.2003;12 :23– 45
225.    Troost PW, Lahuis BE, Steenuis MP, et al. Long-term effects of risperidone in children with autism spectrum disorders: a placebo discontinuation study. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry.2005;44:1137– 1144
226.    Tsakanikos E, Costello H, Holt G, et al. Psychopathology in adults with autism and intellectual disability. J Autism Dev Disord.2006;36 :1123– 1129
227.    Tuchman R, Rapin I, Shinnar S. Autistic and dysphasic children II: epilepsy [published correction appears in Pediatrics. 1992;90:264].Pediatrics.1991;88 :1219– 1225
228.    Tuchman R, Rapin I. Epilepsy in autism. Lancet Neurol.2002;1 :352– 358
229.    Tuchman RF, Rapin I. Regression in pervasive developmental disorders: seizures and epileptiform electroencephalogram correlates.Pediatrics.1997;99 :560– 566
230.    Turk J. Melatonin supplementation for severe and intractable sleep disturbance in young people with genetically determined developmental disabilities: short review and commentary. J Med Genet.2003;40 :793– 796
231.    Valicenti-McDermott M, McVicar K, Rapin I, Wershil BK, Cohen H, Shinnar S. Frequency of gastrointestinal symptoms in children with autistic spectrum disorders and association with family history of autoimmune disease. J Dev Behav Pediatr.2006;27(2 suppl) :S128– S136
232.    Venter AC, Lord C, Schopler E. A follow-up study of high-functioning autistic children. J Child Psychol Psychiatry.1992;33 :489– 507
233.    Vitiello B. An update on publicly funded multisite trials in pediatric psychopharmacology. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am.2006;15 :1– 12
234.    Volkmar FR, Nelson DS. Seizure disorders in autism. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry.1990;29 :127– 129
235.    Volkmar FR, Wiesner LA, Westphal A. Healthcare issues for children on the autism spectrum. Curr Opin Psychiatry.2006;19 :361– 366
236.    Weiskop S, Richdale A, Matthews J. Behavioural treatment to reduce sleep problems in children with autism or fragile X syndrome. Dev Med Child Neurol.2005;47 :94– 104
237.    Weiss M. Differential rates of skill acquisition and outcomes of early intensive behavioral intervention for autism. Behav Interv.1999;14 :3– 22
238.    Weiss MJ, Harris SL. Teaching social skills to people with autism. Behav Modif.2001;25 :785– 802
239.    Whalen C, Schreibman L. Joint attention training for children with autism using behavior modification procedures. J Child Psychol Psychiatry.2003;44 :456– 468
240.    Wieder S, Greenspan SI. Can children with autism master the core deficits and become empathetic, creative, and reflective? A ten to fifteen year follow-up of a subgroup of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) who received a comprehensive developmental, individual-difference, relationship-based (DIR) approach. J Dev Learn Disord.2005;9:39– 61
241.    Wiggs L, Stores G. Sleep patterns and sleep disorders in children with autistic spectrum disorders: insights using parent report and actigraphy.Dev Med Child Neurol.2004;46 :372– 380
242.    Williams G, Sears LL, Allaed A. Sleep problems in children with autism.J Sleep Res.2004;13 :265– 268
243.    Williams KW, Wray JJ, Wheeler DM. Intravenous secretin for autism spectrum disorder. Cochrane Database Syst Rev.2005;(3) :CD003495
244.    Witwer A, Lecavalier L. Treatment incidence and patterns in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol.2005;15 :671– 681
245.    Wong HHL, Smith RG. Patterns of complementary and alternative medical therapy use in children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders. J Autism Dev Disord.2006;36 :901– 909
246.    Zollman C, Vickers A. What is complementary medicine? BMJ.1999;319:693– 696

Helping Autistic Children Navigate the Holidays: Strategies for a Joyful Season

The holiday season is often seen as a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. However, for families with autistic children, this time of...