Assessment of the efficacy of a program to improve the social communication and behavior of young children with autism spectrum disorders

Abstract

Numerous studies reveal the benefits of early intervention for the adequate development of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Most of the interventions designed for people with ASD focus exclusively on a sole methodology. This study proposes a Combined Early Intervention Program (hereafter CEIP) using different methodologies with scientific evidence: Early Intensive Behavioral Interventions (EIBI), Early Start Denver Model (DENVER), spatial-temporal organization (TEACCH), augmentative communication systems (the Picture Exchange Communication System—PECS—, Total Communication Program, Picture Communication Symbols—PCS), behavioral strategies, and training of the parents. This CEIP contemplates intervention in areas that are typically affected in ASD: socialization, communication, symbolization, and behavioral flexibility, producing considerable improvement in the children's behavior, decreasing problem behaviors and improving social communication.