This book reviews the current state of research and practice in intervention for children with autism. The 10 chapters are organized into three parts, on the nature of autism, treatment of autism, and possibilities for a cure and recovery from autism. Chapter 1 introduces definitions and characteristics of autism. Chapter 2 considers what it is like to be autistic, based on statements of autistic individuals. Chapter 3 addresses developmental patterns seen in autistic individuals from preschool through young adulthood. Chapters 4 and 5 consider the impact of autism on the family. Chapter 6 examines current intervention programs such as the behavioral intervention developed by Ivar Lovaas. Inequities in access to expensive interventions such as the in-home preschool intervention of Lovaas are addressed in chapter 7. Chapter 8 describes other alternative treatments including diet, auditory integration training, sensory integration therapy, and facilitated communication. Chapter 9 considers possible "recovery" and reviews data on long-term outcomes. The final chapter urges work on the neurobiological causes of autism, pharmacological treatment, and behavioral/educational interventions. It also stresses the need to provide all children with state-of-the-art autism intervention services. Appended are diagnostic criteria for autistic disorder and a list of resources. (Contains 150 references.) (DB)