Written for the wide range of physicians and professionals who treat children and adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), this book reviews the scientific research on the nature and causes of autism, outlines best treatment practices with children and describes a comprehensive assessment and treatment approach for adults. Topics covered include:Classification, epidemiology and diagnosisNeurodevelopmental abnormalitiesRecommendations for early screening and evaluating at-risk childrenEarly interventions based on applied behavioral analysisThe critical role of special education, speech-language therapy, occupational therapy and assistive technology in treating childrenPharmacotherapyComplementary and alternative treatmentsDevelopment of individualized and person-centered treatments for adultsThe Autism Spectrum is an invaluable resource for all those working with ASDs including pediatricians, psychiatrists, behavioral psychologists, special educators, nurses and therapists.