The development of community-based programs for autistic adolescents.

Area of Science:

• Developmental Psychology
• Special Education

Background:

• The Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication Handicapped Children (TEACCH) program's legislative mandate has expanded to include autistic adolescents and adults.
• There is a need for community-based services and programs tailored to the unique needs of older individuals with autism.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development of diagnostic, assessment, and curriculum materials for autistic adolescents and adults.
• To outline the creation of day and residential programs for this population.
• To detail intensive intervention and sex education efforts within the TEACCH program.

Main Methods:

• Development of specialized diagnostic and assessment tools.
• Creation of tailored curriculum materials.
• Establishment of day and residential community-based programs.
• Implementation of intensive intervention strategies.
• Development of sex education programs.

Main Results:

• Diagnostic, assessment, and curriculum materials have been developed.
• A full range of day and residential programs are being established.
• Intensive intervention and sex education components are being integrated.

Conclusions:

• The TEACCH program is actively developing resources and programs for autistic adolescents and adults.
• While in preliminary stages, these efforts offer a model for other organizations aiming to serve this demographic.
• The program's expansion addresses a critical need for community-based support for older individuals with autism.