Prognosis in autism: Do specialist treatments affect long-term outcome?

Abstract

Many different treatments have been claimed to have a dramatic impact on children with autism. This paper reviews what is known about the outcome in adult life and examines the limitations and advantages of a variety of intervention approaches. It concludes that there is little evidence of any 'cure' for autism, but appropriately structured programmes for education and management in the early years can play a significant role in enhancing functioning in later life.