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Identifying and Addressing the Missing Links Between Research, Policy, and Practice in Autism Research: Lessons From
Giacomo Vivanti1, Anne M Roux1, Diana L Robins1
1A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
Summary
Despite growing autism research, gaps persist in applying findings to practice. Policy interventions, including legislation and professional guidelines, are crucial for improving early autism detection and intervention, benefiting individuals on the autism spectrum.
Area of Science:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) research and clinical practice.
- Health services research and policy implementation science.
Background:
- Significant growth in autism diagnosis and intervention research over 20 years.
- Persistent gaps exist between research findings, policy development, and clinical practice.
- Underutilization of evidence-based autism screening tools and interventions in the US.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the research-practice gaps in autism diagnosis and intervention.
- To analyze the role of 'big P' (legislation, regulations) and 'little p' (guidelines) policies in bridging these gaps.
- To apply the Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, Sustainment (EPIS) framework to understand these disparities.
Main Methods:
- Commentary and analysis of existing literature on autism research, policy, and practice.
- Application of the Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, Sustainment (EPIS) framework.
- Focus on the influence of macro-level (big P) and micro-level (little p) policies.
Main Results:
- Standardized autism screening tools are underused by pediatricians despite proven benefits for early diagnosis.
- Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions (NDBIs) are infrequently used in early intervention settings despite strong evidence.
- Policy, encompassing both governmental and professional organizational levels, plays a critical role in the translation of research into practice.
Conclusions:
- Addressing the identified gaps requires strategic policy interventions.
- Policy efforts can facilitate the uptake of evidence-based practices for autism.
- Bridging the research-practice gap through policy can enhance early detection and intervention, improving outcomes for individuals with autism.
Keywords:
autism screeningautism spectrum disorderdevelopmental screeningimplementationpolicytranslationMore Related Videos
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