Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 5, 2026

A Treatment Package without Escape Extinction to Address Food Selectivity
Published on: August 21, 2015
Stimulant medication treatment of target behaviors in children with autism: a population-based study
Katherine Nickels1, Slavica K Katusic, Robert C Colligan
1Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo clinic, College of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
Objective:
This study provides detailed information about stimulant medication treatment for the target symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity, disinhibition, and inattention in children with autism.
Methods:
In a previous study, 124 subjects fulfilling DSM-IV-based research criteria for autistic disorder were identified among all 0-21 year old residents of Olmsted County, MN from 1976-1997. For each of these 124 children with research-identified autism, information was abstracted on all prescribed psychopharmacological medications.
Results:
Psychostimulants were used to treat 52.4% (N = 65) of the 124 subjects. The median total duration of psychostimulant treatment was 4.0 years. There were 398 episodes of psychostimulant treatment. Favorable responses were associated with 69.4% of treatment episodes. Of the 398 episodes of stimulant treatment, 16.8% were associated with a documented side effect. At least one side effect was experienced by 66% of the children.
Conclusion:
These results indicate that psychostimulants are commonly prescribed for children with autism, and suggest that these medications may improve the target symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity, disinhibition and inattention.
Related Concept Videos
Autism Spectrum Disorder
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
Modeling in Therapy
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...
Operant Conditioning Intervention
In operant conditioning, behaviors that are...
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Behavior Modification
A real-world application of operant conditioning principles is applied...
Drug Therapy
Antianxiety Medications