Autism Spectrum Disorder: Characteristics, Associated Behaviors, and Early Intervention.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by deficits in social communication and interaction and the presence of restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior and interests. Currently, ASD affects 1 in 59 individuals and can be a costly disorder across one's lifetime. Because of the prevalence, costs, and range of behavioral needs, early intervention is vital to teach skills across a variety of domains and prevent the development or exacerbation of behavioral deficits and excesses. Interventions based on applied behavior analysis have the most empirical support; several strategies to teach social skills, communication, and adaptive skills are discussed.