Understanding Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Michelle Haney is an Associate Professor of Psychology and Education at Berry College. Haney has taught psychology and education courses at the graduate and undergraduate level for over ten years, and has directed the Interdisciplinary Studies program at Berry College. In addition to her Ph.D. with a cognate in developmental disorders, Haney is a School Psychologist and worked for a large public school system for eight years before entering academia. Her clinical work involves psychological evaluation and consultation primarily involving children with developmental disabilities. While working in the public school system, Haney was the lead school psychologist for a dual-diagnosis program serving children with developmental disabilities. She has published numerous theoretical and empirical papers in peer-reviewed journals and presented at professional conferences across the country. Haney's work with family advocacy groups, community outreach programs, and local public schools has allowed her to integrate teaching and service to optimize learning and pool scarce resources. Her experiences working with families with children on the autism spectrum and professionals in the community alongside developing meaningful courses to introduce undergraduate students to the field of autism will be highlighted in this text.

Preface Acknowledgements Section I. The Evolving Understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder 1. Historical Overview of Autism and the Role of the Family 2. Current Understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder 3. Biological Issues and Etiology of Autism Spectrum Disorder Section II. Collaborating with Families for Diagnosis and Setting Educational Goals 4. Collaborating With and Supporting Families of Children with ASD 5. Identification and the Diagnostic Process 6. Early Intervention and Transitioning to Elementary School Section III. Addressing the Needs of Individuals with ASD within the School Setting and the Greater Community 7. Interventions Based on Applied Behavior Analysis at School, Home, and Within the Community 8. Environmental Supports Addressing Sensory Needs and Promoting Academic Success for Children with ASD 9. The Development of Communication and Language Skills in Children with ASD 10. Social Development in Children with ASD 11. Transitioning to Adulthood: Fostering Independence and Self-Determination Glossary References Author Biographies

"This text is accessible to students and provides a comprehensive way of addressing a complex issue like ASD." -- Jennifer Kurth "This text is accessible to students and provides a comprehensive way of addressing a complex issue like ASD." -- Jennifer Kurth