Main description:

Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC), which include autism, Asperger syndrome, and pervasive developmental disorder, are puzzling, controversial, and a challenge - and the subject of both increasing interest and a multitude of myths. While many questions about ASC remain unanswered to date, our knowledge of the roots, characteristics, outcome, and effective intervention options has improved hugely in recent years. In this unique book, leading clinical and research authorities help explode myths and answer frequently asked questions on ASC: What are ASC? What are their causes? How prevalent are they? How are ASC diagnosed and by whom? What are the first signs? How should people with ASC be educated and treated? How do people with ASC think? What can parents, teachers, and experts do? What can be done for adults with ASC? Where can information and support be found? These and other areas are covered by this clearly written book to provide concise, scientifically sound, state-of-the-art, and practical information about autism spectrum conditions for all who work ASC clients.

Contents:

Contents Foreword / Introduction List of Contributors Chapter 1: Characteristics, Identification, Diagnosis (FAQ 1-10) Chapter 2: Diagnosing Autism (FAQ 11-18) Chapter 3: Frequency, Development, Prognosis (FAQ 19-22) Chapter 4: Autism - A Developmental Disorder (FAQ 23-29) Chapter 5: Causes and Risk (FAQ 30-45) Chapter 6: Treatment of ASC (FAQ 46-55) Chapter 7: Treatment of Specific Symptoms of ASC (FAQ 56-62) Chapter 8: Pharmacological Treatments of ASC (FAQ 63-67) Chapter 9: School, Education, Employment, Independent Living (FAQ 68-75) Chapter 10: Legal issues, Organizations, Resources (FAQ 76-81)