Publications
Handbook of Evidence-Based Practices in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Eds. Brian Reichow, Peter Doehring, & Fred R. Volkmar
Springer, 2025
Overview
Examines current and emerging interventions for individuals with autism
Discusses the use of psychopharmacology and EBPs (evidence-based practices) across settings
Review treatment models (e.g., early intensive behavioral intervention, pivotal response treatment) and parent education and support programs
Adolescents and Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Eds. Fred R. Volkmar, Brian Reichow, & James C. McPartland
Springer, 2025
Overview
Examines complex issues facing adolescents and adults with autism, such as education, employment, legal issues
Explores the transition from high school to adulthood for adolescents and young adults with autism
Addresses the range of outcomes and challenges in middle and later life for adults with autism
Facilitating Interaction with Police During Routine Traffic Stops for Persons with ASD
Harry Grindle, Kari A. Sassu, Joseph M. Dooley, Eileen B. Farmer & Fred R. Volkmar
Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 2024
Abstract
A product of ASD socio-communicative-deficits and insufficient police training related to autism, ASD-police interactions have the potential to become problematic, with negative outcomes for ASD individuals and police alike. Thus, the combination of police acclimation, simulatory experience for drivers with ASD and the introduction of Connecticut’s recent Blue Envelope could improve overall experiences for drivers. A simulated routine traffic stop practice event, utilizing pre- and post-measures was conducted in an effort to quantify drivers’ feelings about current and future interactions with police. Our prediction that participants would experience a statistically significant improvement in anxiety, comfort and self-perceived knowledge levels about future ASD-police interactions immediately following the intervention was confirmed. Our prediction that initially significant disparities between participants with and without police experience – those with previous police encounters versus those that don’t - would become not significant immediately following the intervention was disconfirmed. While the longitudinal data suggested that improved post-intervention ASD psychological measures remained statistically significant in the long-term, the sample responses to our long-term questionnaire were too few in number to make any definitive conclusions. It is suggested that practice traffic stops such as these could benefit both drivers with ASD and law enforcement nationwide. It is further suggested that police officer curriculums should include additional training regarding special populations.
Meghan Brahm Gleeson, Harry Grindle & Mark M. Gleeson
Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 2024
Abstract
The rising prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has led to increased efforts to support individuals with ASD across numerous aspects of life, including driving. While obtaining a driver’s license substantially impacts quality of life and independence, it also creates distinct challenges for those with ASD. Challenges surrounding social communication, executive functioning, and sensory sensitivities are particularly evident when considering interactions between drivers with ASD and law enforcement personnel. Connecticut’s Blue Envelope Program aims to improve interactions between drivers with ASD and law enforcement by providing instructions for officers and drivers to follow during routine traffic stops on a physical, blue-colored, envelope. The instructional guidelines aim to assist officers in understanding and appropriately responding to common ASD-related behaviors that may be otherwise misinterpreted and includes accommodations officers could consider during a stop. Additionally, the envelope outlines clear steps for drivers with ASD to follow through the stop to support predictability and expectations. The widespread acceptance, efficacy, and popularity of the Blue Envelope program underscores the importance of increasing awareness and understanding of ASD among law enforcement and the need for more supports to aid in these increasing interactions. Discussion is offered on a broader implementation of this program to support individuals with ASD and officers, while improving the outcomes of interactions.
Autism Spectrum Disorder in the First Years of Life
Edited by Katarzyna Chawarska and Fred R. Volkmar
Guilford Press, 2022
Synthesizing an explosion of recent research, this book presents dramatic advances in understanding and treating autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in very young children. Leading authorities describe the innovative tools and methods that are enabling clinicians to more effectively identify 0- to 5-year-olds with the disorder and those at risk for related problems. Chapters discuss the early core symptoms and co-occurring characteristics of ASD, the best diagnostic instruments, and lessons learned from large-scale screening and surveillance, including sibling studies. The book reviews evidence-based interventions and explores practical issues in treatment of young children and their families.
Fred R. Volkmar, Lisa A. Wiesner
Wiley, 2021
The revised and updated second edition of A Practical Guide to Autism offers an authoritative guide to the diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of Autism/Autism Spectrum Disorder. Written by two highly regarded medical professionals, the book offers parents, family members, and teachers a useful review of the concept of autism, its diagnosis, and the most current treatments available. This comprehensive resource covers the range of the condition in infants, young, and school-age children, adolescents, and adults.
The Diagnosis of Autism: From Kanner to DSM‐III to DSM‐5 and Beyond
Nicole E. Rosen, Catherine Lord, & Fred R. Volkmar
Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 2021
In this paper, we review the impact of DSM-III and its successors on the field of autism—both in terms of clinical work and research. We summarize the events leading up to the inclusion of autism as a “new” official diagnostic category in DSM-III, the subsequent revisions of the DSM, and the impact of the official recognition of autism on research. We discuss the uses of categorical vs. dimensional approaches and the continuing tensions around broad vs. narrow views of autism. We also note some areas of current controversy and directions for the future.