Learning your child has autism: resources and implications for parents and families

Excerpt

The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has increased from 1 in 86 to 1 in 50 children 6–17 years old, from 2007 to 2012 [1]. With this steadily growing number, families are constantly searching for an effective treatment for their child that will allow them to be fully functioning, independent, and productive members of society. Many of the parents who have just learned that their child has an autism diagnosis immediately ask the question “What do I do now?”, and their next step is completely influenced by two things: the options that the autism experts suggest to them, and the parent’s reaction to the diagnosis. The autism expert, who gave the diagnosis, has a great responsibility in this case. They are in charge of letting the parents know each of their treatment options, while explaining to them the validity and efficacy of each treatment. It is absolutely crucial for the person who gives the child the diagnosis to guide the parents toward evidence-based practices, or to guide them to other autism professionals who will guide them toward effective treatment options. It may also be necessary for the autism professional to be prepared to suggest emotional or mental health supports for parents who have just learned that their child has been diagnosed with an intellectual disability. The purpose of this article is to review one of the evidence-based practices for the treatment of autism, early intensive behavioral intervention (EIBI), and more specifically applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy, discuss some of the implications this type of intervention has for a family, and highlight the need for parental supports. …