A parent-centered approach to autism diagnosis in early childhood

Excerpt

The prevalence of autism spectrum disorders in the United States is estimated to be approximately 1 in 68 children (though the World Health Organization estimates a global prevalence of just 1 in 160 children) [1, 2]. The average age of the initial diagnosis is estimated to be 4 years of age [3], though research has shown that signs of autism can be observed by the first birthday, and possibly before [4, 5]. Early identification of autism is vital to prognosis, as studies have consistently shown that children who receive treatment at a younger age have better outcomes [6]. Even with the right treatment, however, the degree to which caregivers are invested in the therapeutic process serves as a mediating factor [7]. For this reason, an autism-specific evaluation should aim not just to provide a diagnosis, as appropriate, but also to allow caregivers to participate in the diagnostic process in a manner that educates and empowers them. …