Research summaries for autism therapy: control

definition of control: As in scientific control. An untreated condition or group in a scientific study or experiment that is used to compare the treated condition or group, and to observe possible changes that occur because of the treatment. Well-designed experiments and studies use good controls.
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The Effectiveness of Intervention on the Behavior of Individuals with Autism: A Meta-Analysis Using Percentage of Data Points Exceeding the Median of Baseline Phase (PEM), Summarized Oct 21, 2010

Some applied behavior analysis (ABA) approaches are more helpful than others when teaching social skills to people with autism.

The aim of this review article was to compare applied behavior analysis (ABA) techniques to treat autism. The study found five helpful ways to use ABA: priming, self-control, training, positive reinforcement plus punishment, and presenting preferential activities. These interventions were helpful for all ages and both genders. The least helpful use of ABA was in teaching perspective-taking skills. The author found that it worked better to train social skills as a whole instead of training just a single type of social skill.

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Sensory Processing in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Summarized Oct 19, 2010

Sensory processing disorder may persist in adults with autism and perhaps should be addressed with treatment.

The aim of this study was to see if sensory processing disorder was common in adults with autism. This study compared levels of sensory processing in adults with autism with an age and IQ score matched group using a self-report measure of sensory processing (Adult/Adolescent Sensory Profile – AASP). The authors found that adults with autism report high levels of sensory response compared to the control group. This is in contrast to a study that found that sensory processing issues decreased as children with autism became adults. The authors note that people with autism varied quite a bit with regards to their sensory processing disorder.

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Enhanced Independence and Quality of Life Through Treatment with Flotation-Restricted Environmental Stimulation Technique of a Patient with Both Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Asperger Syndrome: A Case Report, Summarized Sep 7, 2010

Flotation tanks may be a useful tool for calming the nervous system and helping with sensory integration in adults with Asperger syndrome and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

This case study describes an adult with Asperger syndrome and ADHD who was treated with flotation-Restricted Environmental Stimulation Technique (flotation-REST). The 36-year old woman from Sweden also had depression. She was given 19 sessions over a year and at the end felt that she was better able to live life on her own. With time she learned to control how alert she was (arousal control). She also learned to control how active she was (activity regulation). Her senses relaxed and she became better at sensory integration.

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Interactive Metronome Training in Children with Attention Deficit and Developmental Coordination Disorders, Summarized May 27, 2010

Interactive Metronome training may help children with attention deficit disorder or pervasive developmental disorder who have deficits in visuomotor control and speed.

This study was designed to see if Interactive Metronome therapy can help these children move better and pay attention better. The study was designed so that each child acted as his or her own control. The authors found that Interactive Metronome seemed to help with some aspects of motor control and reaction time. They did not see improved attention in the children after therapy. The authors note that there is very little research to back up the many claims made by people who offer Interactive Metronome therapy.

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