ABSTRACT
Although autism is biological in origin, behavioral treatment is currently the beststudied intervention for this disorder. Researchers have published more than 550 peer-refereed, data-based investigations on behavioral treatment (also called applied behavior analysis), and these investigations have shown that the treatment confers a wide range of benefits (1). For example, it helps most individuals with autism communicate with others, engage in play and leisure activities with peers and caregivers, carry out self-care activities such as toileting and dressing, acquire academic and vocational skills, and manage disruptive behaviors such as tantrums or stereotypies (2).
