Autism: New Directions in Research and Education presents the results of research on autism and the experiences of the families of autistic children, as well as the trials and tribulations of a psychologist working with an autistic child. The successes and failures of educational programs are discussed, followed by a detailed and helpful account on the value and limitations of a method of teaching language through simultaneous use of signs and speech. This monograph consists of 25 chapters and opens with an overview of the various behaviors likely to be exhibited by autistic persons, along with the theory of autism. It then considers a person's presentation about stuttering in relation to early infantile autism. An important point emphasized throughout this work is that an autistic child can be helped only if a serious attempt is made to see the world from his point of view, so that the adaptive function of much of his peculiar behavior can be understood in the context of his handicaps. The following chapters explore individual differences in the acquisition of sign language by severely communicatively-impaired children; the autistic child's disturbances of perception, speech, and language; and the nature and relevance of simultaneous communication with autistic children. This book should prove useful to clinicians, researchers, parents, teachers, and students.

This book presents emerging research on the effectiveness of mindfulness methods in reducing behavior problems associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in children. The volume synthesizes current research and theories on the therapeutic uses of mindfulness, specifically for people living with developmental disabilities. In addition, it examines a promising new study in which mothers of children with ASD learn mindfulness techniques for their own use and are then trained to teach the methods to their children. The book concludes with a report of poststudy findings and a discussion of practical and methodological issues regarding mindfulness interventions for ASD. Featured topics include: A genealogy of mindfulness, from original Buddhist texts to modern health applications. Implications for further research and advancement. Appendices of basic mindfulness exercises and activities. A Mindfulness Intervention for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders is a concise resource for researchers, clinicians and other scientist-practitioners, and graduate students in developmental psychology, social work, education, and related disciplines.

The authors have focused this book on the serious, beginning, qualitative researcher - theoretically rigorous, yet with an understandable perspective.; The book has three main features. First, it provides a strong theoretical base for the understanding of competing research paradigms. Secondly, it features a "methods" section consistent with the non-linear nature of naturalistic inquiry, yet it allows the beginner to see direction. Thirdly, the authors include examples of actual research studies conducted (and completed) in a single year.

This third edition is a foundational text that has been updated and expanded to prepare educators, therapists, and other care providers with vital knowledge and practical skills to support diverse learners on the autism spectrum. Covering an expanse of fundamental topics, this edited volume features new directions in research and practice that are essential to understanding the ever-changing field of autism. Along with new chapters from leading experts (including those who identify as autistic), this revision places greater emphasis on the intersection of neurodevelopmental differences with ethnicity, race, culture, language, gender expression, and socioeconomic experiences. The diverse disciplines and perspectives presented provide a foundation on how these students learn and how best to provide them with effective teaching, therapy, and social supports. This book equips readers with knowledge and skill to competently apply reflective and humanistic practices that prioritize the preferences, strengths, and values of autistic learners from all walks of life.

Education is an important aspect of the environmental influences on autism and effective education can have a significant effect on outcome for those on the autism spectrum. This handbook is a definitive resource for reflective practitioners and researchers who wish to know and understand current views of the nature of autism and best practice in educational support. It explores the key concepts, debates and research areas in the field.