Addressing Autism Spectrum Disorders in China

English language readers rarely get glimpses of the state of autism research in China. Given the seriousness of autism, the population of China, and the potential for theoretically interesting cross-cultural insights, we provide a broad survey of research carried out in China on childhood autism. Four themes are considered: etiology, diagnosis, treatment, and education. Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) appears to be a product of epigenetic interactions between genetic and environmental factors; recent Chinese research on etiology reflects this. Current diagnostic procedures in China involve clinical screening and examinations, while research proceeds on brain-imaging techniques for diagnosis. Research on treatment has introduced a comprehensive and moderately effective approach that includes education and training, psychotherapy, and pharmacotherapy. In the realm of education, however, many problems remain, requiring joint efforts of the government and of other societal actors. Finally, there are opportunities for indigenous Chinese concepts and innovations to contribute to the study of ASD.