Are Children Severely Affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder Underrepresented in Treatment Studies? An Analysis of the Literature

• DOI: 10.1007/s10803-018-3844-y
• Publication Date: 2018-12-10T09:33:28Z
• Authors: Amy Stedman; Briana Taylor; Michael Erard; Christine Peura; Matthew Siegel
• Keywords: Adaptive functioning

Despite significant advances in autism research, experts have noted that children severely affected by spectrum disorder (ASD) appear to been understudied. Rigorous analysis of this observation has limited, and the representation severity not well-described. We assessed three domains (communication ability, cognitive functioning, adaptive functioning) 367 treatment studies with ASD published 1991–2013. found proportion included population decreased significantly over time, as well wide variability measurement reporting. Inadequate full literature could lead an unbalanced picture leave behind those arguably greatest need.