1 LITERATURE REVIEW Behavioral Analysis Approach to Potential Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder Learner’s Name Capella University PSY5002: Foundations of Theory and Practices for Master's Psychology Learners Literature Review July, 2020 Copyright ©2020 Capella University. Copy and distribution of this document are prohibited. 2 LITERATURE REVIEW Abstract Interventions for autism and the larger spectrum of disorders referred to as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) primarily cater to children with autism, whereas adults with autism are largely ignored despite the difficulties they face. My analysis of the psychological literature produced on autism and adults reveals that behavioral interventions are moderately to highly effective in mitigating the symptoms of ASD. My interview with a behavior analyst has provided me with insights into behavior analysis and an ethical principle to guide my future practice. The phenomenon of the optimal outcome individual suggests that there is a slight possibility for individuals with autism to lose their diagnosis. However, I have found that most studies focus on the benefits of behavioral interventions. An integrated approach that uses behavioral analysis and other fields related to the mind (such as neuroscience) could help understand and treat ASD. Accordingly, additions have been made to my goals. Copyright ©2020 Capella University. Copy and distribution of this document are prohibited. 3 LITERATURE REVIEW Behavioral Analysis Approach to Potential Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder Autism, or autistic disorder, is one of the disorders classified under autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Individuals diagnosed with ASD characteristically display social deficits that are often exacerbated by intellectual disabilities. Although some individuals might develop their skills enough to raise themselves above the threshold for diagnosis of ASD, most struggle with ASD throughout their lives (Anderson et al., 2014; Fein et al., 2013). Assistance for treating ASD exists primarily for children, but little research has been produced on the occurrence and effects of ASD among adults (Lai et al., 2014). An estimated one in 88 children is diagnosed with ASD in sites across the United States under surveillance by the Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network (Baio et al., 2018). Of these autistic children, only 1–16% lose their diagnosis as they progress into adulthood (Anderson et al., 2014). However, there is a general dearth of psychological research on autism in adults and a subsequent lack of support systems for them. My research question addresses the core of the treatment of autism in adults: What practices help mitigate the difficulties faced by adults with autism? Well-Being and Self-Sufficiency The ideal type of life envisioned for an individual with autism is one of general well- b ...