Dear Mr. Bourgeron,
We are writing in response to your article, “Explaining ‘resilience’ in autism may seed new therapies.” The work being done to identify genes and biological pathways associated with autism is interesting. It is especially fascinating to look at the environmental influences, which contribute to different outcomes in individuals with the same genetic mutation. As you may know, a large body of research in applied behavior analysis looks directly at how environmental variables influence behavior and different outcomes in individuals with autism, and much of this research is dedicated to making meaningful contributions to evidence-based treatment (e.g., Cohen, Amerine- Dickens, & Smith, 2006; Howard, Stanislaw, Green, Sparkman, & Cohen, 2014; Sallows & Graupner, 2005; Smith, Groen, & Wynn, 2000).
The concept of “resilience” in autism is significant. It highlights that individuals with autism are not prisoners of their genetic makeup but rather they can, with high-quality evidence-based treatment, make meaningful changes that directly and positively impact their quality of life. While it is true that in the future more people may have access to their genetic profiles, and it is exciting where that may lead research on autism treatment, it is also crucial for parents to have accurate information about what can truly help their child reach his or her full potential now, no matter their genetic profile.
One of the most important issues individuals with autism and their families face today is finding accessible and accurate information on what treatments are scientifically sound and based on good quality research. It can be challenging for a parent, someone who has autism, or even a professional, to navigate the myriad of information that exists. Some information may even claim to be evidence-based, but the “evidence” is inaccurate, incomplete or gleaned from poorly designed research. Unfortunately, misinformation may often appear more compelling than scientifically sound information. One of the main missions of the Association for Science in Autism Treatment (ASAT) is to share accessible and accurate information about which treatments have scientific basis and which ones do not. For example, ASAT continuously updates and shares treatment summaries that outline the research (if any) behind a popular treatment for autism and a warning, in some cases, to consumers about potentially harmful or experimental treatments. If you or your readers would like additional information on science in autism treatment, please visit our website: www.asatonline.org/.
Thank you for disseminating information on such a noteworthy topic, and for pointing out that “access to high-quality treatments might increase resilience.” It is our continued hope that access to high-quality treatment becomes increasingly available for families. One of the first steps in making that a reality is to educate families, professionals, and other key stakeholders about scientific evidence-based treatment options. When science is at the forefront of research and treatment, “resilience” may certainly be possible, and quality of life for individuals with autism and their families has much greater potential for improvement. We hope that these various avenues of research can come together to effectively help the autism community both now and in the future.
Sincerely,
Brizida Vinjau, MS, BCBA
Renee Wozniak, PhD, BCBA-D
Association for Science in Autism Treatment
References
Cohen, H., Amerine-Dickens, M., & Smith, T. (2006). Early intensive behavioral treatment: Replication of the UCLA model in a community setting. Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, 27(2), 145-155.
Howard, S.S., Stanislaw, H., Green, G., Sparkman, C. R., & Cohen, H. G. (2014). Comparison of behavior analytic and eclectic early interventions for young children with autism after three years. Research in Developmental Disabilities, 35(12), 3326-3344.
Sallows, G. O., & Graupner, T. D. (2005). Intensive behavioral treatment for children with autism: Four- year outcome and predictors. American Journal on Mental Retardation, 110(6), 417-438.
Smith T., Groen, A. D., & Wynn, J. W. (2000). Randomized trial of intensive early intervention for children with pervasive developmental disorder. American Journal on Mental Retardation, 105(4), 269-285.
