On why joint attention might look atypical in autism: A case for a strong policy statement but more nuanced empirical story

Abstract

In the present response to Gernsbacher, Stevenson, Khandakar, and Goldsmith (2008), we support the positivistic and strength-based perspective taken by the authors in understanding the abilities and skills of persons with autism. However, we argue that a more tempered approach - one that encompasses a developmental perspective, as well as a more comprehensive review of both the supporting and the contradictory empirical evidence - is warranted in advancing their conclusions. © 2008, Copyright the Author(s) Journal compilation © 2008, Society for Research in Child Development.