What Science Tells Us about Autism Spectrum Disorder Making the Right Choices for Your Child

What have scientists learned about the causes of autism spectrum disorder? Why do different kids have such different symptoms, and what are the best ways to deal with them? Will there ever be a cure? From leading autism researchers, this accessible guide helps you put the latest advances to work for your unique child. Separating fact from fiction about causes, treatments, and prevention, the book guides you to make lifestyle choices that support the developing brain. From the impact of sleep, exercise, diet, and technology, to which type of professional help might be the right fit, the authors cover it all with expertise and compassion. Learn about the choices you face--and the steps you can take--to build a happier, healthier life for your child and family.

Winner (Second Place)--American Journal of Nursing Book of the Year Award, Consumer Health Category

Raphael Bernier, PhD, is Executive Director of the Seattle Children's Autism Center, Associate Director of the Center on Human Development and Disability, and Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Washington. As a clinical psychologist and the principal investigator on a number of research studies, he is actively involved in research at the intersection of genetics, the brain, and treatment of autism spectrum disorders. He is the author of more than 100 scientific articles and book chapters.
 
Geraldine Dawson, PhD, is Professor of Psychiatry and Director of the Duke Center for Autism and Brain Development at Duke University. She served as Founding Director of the University of Washington Autism Center. An internationally recognized autism expert with a focus on early detection, intervention, and brain plasticity in autism, Dr. Dawson is a passionate advocate for families. She is codeveloper of the Early Start Denver Model, the first empirically validated comprehensive intervention for toddlers with autism. Dr. Dawson is coauthor of the parent resources What Science Tells Us about Autism Spectrum Disorder, An Early Start for Your Child with Autism, and A Parent's Guide to High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder, Second Edition. Her books for professionals include Early Start Denver Model for Young Children with Autism. Dr. Dawson is a Fellow of the American Psychological Society and the American Psychological Association. She is a recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Association for Psychological Science and awards for Valuable Service and Research Contributions from the Autism Society of America.
 
Joel T. Nigg, PhD, is Director of the Division of Psychology and Professor of Psychiatry, Pediatrics, and Behavioral Neuroscience at Oregon Health and Science University. He is widely recognized for his research on the neuropsychological and biological correlates of children’s neurodevelopmental problems, including work on developmental connections of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder. Dr. Nigg is a Fellow of the Association for Psychological Science and past president of the International Society for Research in Child and Adolescent Psychopathology. He is the author or coauthor of two books for parents: Getting Ahead of ADHD and What Science Tells Us about Autism Spectrum Disorder.
 

Introduction
1. A New Understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder
2. What Are the Essential Features That Define the Autism Spectrum?
3. What Causes Autism?
4. How Does the Brain Develop Differently in Autism?
5. What Are the Best Practices for Helping a Child with Autism?
6. Exercise, Sleep, and ASD
7. Gastrointestinal and Feeding Problems, Food, and Diet in ASD
8. Technology and ASD: Latest Findings on the Peril and the Promise
9. Adolescence and Autism
10. Adulthood and Autism
11. Tying It All Together
Resources