Understanding Autism: Variability in State Definitions and Evaluations

The prevalence of autism in schools has significantly increased, making it crucial for practitioners to understand the variability in state definitions and evaluations for Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). The research article "Defining Autism: Variability in State Education Agency Definitions of and Evaluations for Autism Spectrum Disorders" by Pennington, Cullinan, and Southern provides valuable insights into this topic.

Key Findings

The study found substantial variability in how state education agencies (SEAs) define and evaluate autism. Key points include:

• 69% of SEA definitions are based on the IDEA-2004 federal definition.
• Only 8% of SEA definitions align closely with DSM-IV-TR criteria.
• Evaluation procedures vary significantly across states, with many not aligning well with their definitions.

Implications for Practitioners

Understanding these variations can help practitioners improve their skills and provide better services. Here are some actionable steps:

• Familiarize Yourself with State-Specific Definitions: Knowing your state's specific criteria can help you better identify and support students with autism.
• Advocate for Comprehensive Evaluations: Push for evaluations that cover all necessary areas, including health, social-emotional status, and sensory functioning.
• Incorporate Best Practices: Use recognized diagnostic tools like the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) to ensure accurate assessments.

Encouraging Further Research

Given the variability in definitions and evaluations, further research is essential. Practitioners are encouraged to:

• Stay Updated: Regularly review new research and updates to diagnostic criteria like DSM-5.
• Collaborate: Work with other professionals to share knowledge and strategies for better assessments.
• Participate: Engage in studies or surveys that aim to standardize definitions and evaluation procedures.

To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Defining Autism: Variability in State Education Agency Definitions of and Evaluations for Autism Spectrum Disorders.