Self-injurious behavior occurs in almost half of those with autism and is one of the most devastating and challenging-to-treat behaviors. There are many different forms of self-injury, such as head banging, hand biting, hair pulling, excessive scratching, and much more. With contributions from the leading experts in research and treatment, the book provides a comprehensive analysis of self-injurious behavior (SIB) in people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or related developmental disabilities, and the different methods available to treat them.
Medical and behavioral researchers have studied SIB for over 50 years, but many practitioners and parents are still unfamiliar with the wide range of contributing causes and treatment options. Beginning with an explanation of SIB and its various forms, the contributors outline the many possible underlying causes of self-injury, such as seizures, hormonal imbalance in teenagers, gastrointestinal conditions, allergies, and stress, and show how a multi-disciplinary approach when uncovering the causes of self-injury can lead to successful treatment strategies. They explain the treatment options available for SIB, including nutritional, medical, psychiatric, sensory, and behavioral approaches, and show how an integrative approach to treating self-injury may be effective for many individuals.
The book will be an invaluable addition to the bookshelves of any practitioner working with people with an ASD or related condition, as well as parents and direct care providers.
June Groden Ph.D. has been Director of the Groden Center, an educational and treatment facility for children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities in Providence, Rhode Island, since 1976. Dr. Groden is an adjunct professor at Salve Regina and the University of Rhode Island and is on the Panel of Professional Advisors of the Autism Society of America. She has written many books, chapters and journal articles on autism, and is well known for her work in stress and anxiety in the population with autism.
Kelly McCracken Barnhill is Clinical Nutritionist and Director of Clinical Care at The Johnson Center for Child Health and Development. She has over a decade of experience working with nutrition in children with autism and related disorders and is Nutrition Director for the Autism Research Institute. Her son acquired post-viral dysautonomia at the age of 12. She is based in Austin, Texas.
Cooper R. Woodard Ph.D. is Director of Clinical Services and Training at the Groden Center, a visiting professor at the University of Rhode Island, a visiting professor at Wheaton College, Norton, MA, and a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst.
