A new book, titled Understanding and Treating Sleep Disturbances in Autism, is now available from Jessica Kingsley Publishers.  The book is edited by ARI’s chief science officer, Stephen M. Edelson, and past ARI Board member, Jane B. Johnson, and consists of chapters written by leading experts in the autism field.

Sleep disturbance is a common challenge for those on the autism spectrum and can have a profound impact on quality of life. Sleep deprivation can exacerbate features of autism such as repetitive behaviors, can affect brain growth and negatively impact immune and metabolic functions.

With contributions from pioneering researchers and clinicians, this book provides a professional understanding of the impact of sleep deprivation on autistic people. It offers insight into the latest research and available treatments, including the potential solutions offered by pharmacotherapy, using polysomnography in sleep evaluation, and the role of physical disturbances such as pain in sleep disorders. Contributing authors take an in-depth look at current behavioral interventions for sleep problems, conduct an extensive review of sensory processing in relation to sleep disturbances, and offer a discussion and analysis of the role of nutrition and dietary advice.

This is the cutting-edge resource for professionals and academics seeking further insight into sleep disturbances and autism, exploring contemporary research and setting the groundwork for the most effective methods of treatment for individuals of all ages.

You can order your copy directly from Jessica Kingsley Publishers.

"Understanding and treating sleep disturbances in autism" book cover
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ARI developed an online app for parents and practitioners based on the book Understanding & Treating Sleep Disturbances in Autism. Our free questionnaire helps identify potential care strategies for sleep issues commonly associated with autism. Visit the online app to learn more.

Understanding and Treating Anxiety in Autism is edited by ARI’s executive director, Stephen M. Edelson, and past ARI Board member, Jane B. Johnson, and consists of chapters written by leading experts in the autism field. With a foreward by David Amaral, PhD, Understanding and Treating Anxiety in Autism summarizes the current perspectives and research on anxiety in autism including neurology, medical, immunology, gastrointestinal, nutrition, sensory, and behavioral.

Anxiety is a prevalent and often debilitating condition for individuals on the autism spectrum. This book promotes a multidisciplinary approach to intervention and treatment of the condition, providing a professional understanding of the underlying causes and available treatments.

Providing an invaluable resource for professionals and academics seeking further insight into anxiety and autism, this book explores contemporary research and sets the groundwork for the most effective methods of treatment for individuals of all ages.

You can order your copy directly from Jessica Kingsley Publishers.

"Understanding and Treating Anxiety in Autism" book cover
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Self-Injury Book Edited By ARI Directors Addresses Challenging Behaviors

With contributions from the leading experts in research and treatment, Understanding and Treating Self-Injurious Behavior (2016) provides a comprehensive analysis of this poorly understood behavior in people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or related developmental disabilities, and the different methods available to treat them.

Experts praise Understanding and Treating Self-Injurious Behavior in ASD

“An essential resource”
Temple Grandin, author of Thinking in Pictures and The Autistic Brain

“This book is long overdue.”   Laurie Mawlam, Executive Director, Autism Canada “

… a ‘must read’ book for all practitioners who interact with families affected by ASD.”    David G. Amaral, Ph.D., Research Director, The MIND Institute

Autism related book cover
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ARI developed an online app for parents and practitioners based on the book Understanding & Treating Self-Injurious Behavior in Autism. Our free questionnaire helps identify potential care strategies for difficult behaviors commonly associated with autism. Visit the online app to learn more.

Pictured:

Editors Stephen M. Edelson and Jane Botsford Johnson

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Self-Regulation Strategies for Self-Injury

March 25th, 2025|Adults on the Spectrum, Anxiety, Assessment, depression, Meltdowns, News, Self Care, Self Injury, Self-Injury, Webinar|

Emily Ferguson, Ph.D., discusses self-regulation strategies for self-injurious behaviors (SIB). She outlines recent research on the frequency and distribution of different SIBs across a large sample, underscoring the importance of assessing individual behavior

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Autism and Trauma: Research Updates

March 11th, 2025|Adults on the Spectrum, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorders, bullying, Challenging Behaviors, Gender, Health, Research, Self Care, seniors, Sensory, Sexuality, Social Skills, Ways to Help, Webinar|

Dr. Connor Kerns delivers research updates on the intersection of trauma and autism. She describes the relationship between childhood adversities, trauma, and mental health and highlights the need for trauma measurements that are

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Wellbeing Wins: Integrating Positive Psychology into the Autism Community

January 2nd, 2025|Adults on the Spectrum, Anxiety, Anxiety, Back to School, depression, Executive Function, Health, Neurological, News, Self Care, Sleep Issues, Social Skills, Webinar|

Patricia Wright, PhD, MPH, and Katie Curran, MAAP, introduce Proof Positive - The Autism Well-being Alliance. The speakers describe positive psychology, its impact on well-being, and why it matters for autistic