Free Effects of Integration on Levels of Autistic Behavior

Abstract

The trend toward full inclusion of young children with autism raises questions as to whether there are any “free,” or unplanned, benefits of integration. This study explored whether differing levels of autistic behavior were associated with the presence of typical children or with the presence of other children with autism. Participants included 28 preschool-age children with autism. Videotaped observations of naturally occurring behavior were coded on measures of: (a) levels of autistic behavior, (b) the presence of typical peers, and (c) the presence of other children with autism. An ANOVA indicated that significantly decreased levels of autistic behavior corresponded to the close availability of typical peers. Because the database was obtained at the time of children's entry into treatment, it is unlikely that the results were directly related to treatment interventions. However, practices of full inclusion of children with autism may yield additional unplanned treatment benefits.

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