Table of Contents

I. Understanding High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder
1. What Is High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder?
2. The Diagnostic Process
3. Causes of Autism Spectrum Disorder
4. Treatments for High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder
II. Living with High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder
5. Channeling Your Child's Strengths: A Guiding Principle
6. High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder at Home
7. High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder at School
8. The Social World of Children and Adolescents with High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder
9. Looking Ahead: High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder in Late Adolescence and Adulthood
Resources
References

About the Author

Sally Ozonoff, PhD, is Endowed Professor and Vice Chair for Research in the Department of Psychiatry and the MIND Institute--a national center for the study and treatment of ASD--at the University of California, Davis. Dr. Ozonoff is widely known for her research and teaching in the areas of early diagnosis and assessment of ASD, and has an active clinical practice.

Geraldine Dawson, PhD, is Professor of Psychiatry and Director of the Duke Center for Autism and Brain Development at Duke University. She served as Founding Director of the University of Washington Autism Center. An internationally recognized autism expert with a focus on early detection, intervention, and brain plasticity in autism, Dr. Dawson is a passionate advocate for families. She is coauthor of An Early Start for Your Child with Autism.

James C. McPartland, PhD, is Assistant Professor, Director of the Developmental Disabilities Clinic, and Associate Director of the Developmental Electrophysiology Laboratory at the Yale Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine. Dr. McPartland's research focuses on the clinical neuroscience of autism spectrum disorders from infancy through adulthood. He is a recipient of honors including the Behavioral Science Track Award for Rapid Transition and a Patient-Oriented Research Career Development Award from the National Institute of Mental Health, the NARSAD Atherton Young Investigator Award, the Young Investigator Award from the International Society for Autism Research, and the Klerman Prize for Exceptional Achievement in Clinical Research from the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation.

Reviews

"I really like how this book emphasizes building on the talents and strengths of a person with high-functioning autism. It contains many useful case histories and combines both scientific and practical information for parents, teachers, and other professionals."--Temple Grandin, PhD, author of Thinking in Pictures

“What an immensely readable and empowering book! It contains everything a parent needs to know in order to understand, support, and advocate for a child with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder. The authors are leaders in the field--sensitive and compassionate clinicians as well as highly respected clinical researchers. This second edition provides practical insights and useful strategies that are well grounded in the most current scientific knowledge.”--Wendy L. Stone, PhD, Department of Psychology, University of Washington; Director, Research on Early Autism Detection and Intervention (READi) Lab

“This is the indispensable book I would want were I the parent of a child, adolescent, or adult with high-functioning autism or Asperger syndrome. Written and organized in a way that is highly engaging and accessible, the expert authors show parents how to maximize success at each stage of life from toddlerhood to adulthood. Unique in its positive approach, the Guide focuses on how to capitalize on the strengths shown by affected individuals, offering practical strategies that promote self-esteem and better emotional health. Parents will find this hands-on guide engaging, informative, sometimes funny, and most important, highly useful.”--Deborah Fein, PhD, Departments of Psychology and Pediatrics, University of Connecticut

“With a plethora of books available about autism, this is one of the few that I recommend to parents whose child has just received a diagnosis. It is written by some of the world’s leading authorities, who combine up-to-date research and practice in a highly accessible way. While the content is grounded in research, it has many down-to-earth practical tips and advice. The second edition will be on the reading list I give my clinical students in child psychology and psychiatry.”--Tony Charman, PhD, Chair in Clinical Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, King’s College London, United Kingdom

"This is the book that I recommend you read first after receiving your child's diagnosis--you'll find researched treatments, strategies, and resources to begin helping your son or daughter right away. It will help you prioritize and chart the course for 'what's next.' The authors emphasize how gaining a deeper understanding of your child's strengths, talents, and preferences can help you create meaningful supports as he or she grows into adulthood."--Lynne Weissmann, mother of an adult with Asperger syndrome -