Currently, the importance of early diagnosis and treatment is well established amongst diverse groups of professionals (Fenske, et al, 1985; Lovaas, 1987; Maurice, 1993; Perry, Cohen & DeCarlo, 1995). Researchers are finding "it may be the case that there is a "critical period" during which the young, developing brain is very modifiable. For some children with autism, the repeated, active interaction with the physical and social environment that is ensured by intensive behavior analytic treatment may modify their neural circuitry before it goes too much awry, correcting it before autism becomes become permanent (Lovaas & Smith, 1989; Perry, Cohen & DeCarlo, 1995.) At this point in time, of course, these are merely plausible speculations that remain to be investigated in scientific studies." (Green, 1995).

It is likely 90% of children with autism who do not receive effective early intervention will require special or custodial care throughout their lives. This is estimated to cost the US over $13 billion a year (Families for Early Autism Treatment, Video).

References/Early Intervention

Families for Early Autism Treatment (FEAT). "Doctor, My Child Doesn't Talk:" The Importance of Early Autism Diagnosis. [Video]. Available: FEAT, PO Box 255722, Sacramento, CA 95865-5722 (916) 843-1536.

Fenske, E. C., Zalenski, S., Krantz, P. J., & McClannahan, L. E. (1985). Age at intervention and treatment outcome for autistic children in a comprehensive intervention program. Analysis and Intervention in Developmental Disabilities, 5, 49 - 58.

Green, G. (1995). Early intervention for children with autism: The need for intensive behavior analytic treatment. Unpublished working paper, New England Center for Children, Southborough, MA.

Lovaas, O. I. (1987). Behavioral treatment and normal educational and intellectual functioning in young autistic children. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 55, 3 - 9.

Lovaas, OI, & Smith, T. (1989). A comprehensive behavioral theory of autistic children: Paradigm for research and treatment. Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry, 20, 17 - 29.

Maurice, C. (1993). Let me hear your voice. New York: Knopf.

Perry, R., Cohen, I., and DeCarlo, R. (1995). Case study: Deterioration, autism, and recovery in two siblings. Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. 34, 232 - 237.