In The Autistic Spectrum: All That Matters, Lorna Selfe explains that research over recent years has shown that there is not one such thing as autism but in fact a variety of autistic spectrum disorders. The causes of these, or the reasons for their apparently increasing prevalence in the UK and North America while in many other perts of the world they are hardly recognised at all, remain the subject of intensive research and debate. Dr Selfe strips away the many myths around autism, focusing instead on what we really know about its varieties, causes and treatments. As such, it is the ideal introduction to autistic spectrum disorders for psychology students, health practitioners, and the parents, carers and friends of people with autism. This accessible and readable book gives a fascinating introduction to the autistic spectrum - and what matters most about it.

The Primer on Autism Spectrum Disorder provides a quick yet comprehensive overview of clinically-relevant topics related to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) for the medical or mental health student, trainee, or recent graduate who seeks efficient learning. Chapters are designed to give an overview of a topic area in real time while on a rotation; while studying for professional board examinations in primary care, pediatrics, neurology or psychiatry; or even during preparation for a presentation or discussion scheduled to occur the next day. The sections include Background and Diagnostic Assessment, Etiology, Treatment, and Other Care Delivery Services and Perspectives, with each chapter written by an internationally recognized expert in the field. The chapters on diagnosis and treatment are written from a practical "how to" perspective. Those on etiology are written with the clinician in mind. These clinically-focused chapters include one or more vignettes that present simulated patient cases designed to highlight teaching points related to each chapter's content area. The book ends with a chapter written by family members of individuals with ASD and another written by an adult with ASD that illustrate the human impact these disorders have on day-to-day lives, hopes, and dreams. At the end of each chapter, "Key Points" for summarizing the intended take home messages of each author/authors are listed.

Following on from the popular and provocative First Edition, the Second Edition offers the latest research on autistic spectrum disorders, exploring theories at the psychological, neurobiological and 'first cause' levels to methods of assessment, intervention, education and support.

- Professionals can be trained in the program and its methods - Translates scientific knowledge so that practitioners and parents can easily understand the current state of knowledge - Offers strategies that can be tailored to an individual's unique developmental and functional level - Advises parents on how to become involved in all phases of intervention as collaborators, co-therapists, and advocates. - Details how the program can be introduced and adapted for individuals of all ages, from preschooler to adult

This book offers clear best-practice guidelines for the assessment of Autism Spectrum Disorder. It discusses both the rising rates of autism and the growing need for appropriate, effective treatments and services. The book examines measures and methods used in assessing for core symptoms of ASD as well as memory, attention, visual and spatial skills, and other areas relevant to autism assessment. In-depth material on differential diagnosis and a range of comorbid conditions depict the complexities of the assessment process and the necessity of accurate identification. The book's case vignettes and sample recommendations add practical and personal dimensions to issues and challenges surrounding diagnosis. Topics featured include:“ul> A practical guide to the comprehensive assessment process. Discussion of the assessment process from referral to recommendation. Diagnostic framework for ASD and other disorders School-based ASD eligibility evaluation. Assessment across the lifespan. /divAssessment of Autism Spectrum Disorder is an important tool for clinicians, practitioners, researchers and graduate students in the fields of child and school psychology, behavioral therapy, and social work as well as the related areas of psychiatry, pediatrics, forensic psychology, and educational and healthcare policy.