Research Paper

Exercise Instructions

This assignment will deepen your understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and help you connect scientific knowledge to real-world behavior-analytic practice. You will explain what autism is, summarize what research says about its causes, and explore why this knowledge matters for effective intervention planning. Finally, you will design a measurable goal, select an evidence-based intervention, and ensure cultural and contextual fit.

Your paper must include the following five sections. Use these section titles in your submission.

1. What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

(about 1 page)

• Define autism in your own words.
• Describe common features such as communication differences, social interaction challenges, repetitive behaviors, and sensory differences.
• Explain how common autism is and why it is considered a spectrum.
• Use at least one reliable source (e.g., CDC, DSM-5, or peer-reviewed research).

2. What Do We Know About the Causes of Autism?

(about1 page)

• Summarize what research says about genetic factors, brain development, and possible environmental influences.
• Address and correct at least one myth not supported by science (for example, the false claim that vaccines cause autism).
• Use peer-reviewed research from the last five years to support your discussion.

3. Why This Matters for Behavior Analysts

(about 12 page)

• Explain why understanding autisms features and causes is important when planning ABA interventions.
• Discuss how this knowledge shapes decisions about reinforcement, prompting, skill selection, or teaching strategies.
• Include one example of how a specific characteristic (e.g., sensory sensitivity) might influence your approach.

4. Practice Writing a Treatment Plan

(at least 1 page)

Create a short fictional client scenario and complete the following:

a. Write a Measurable Goal:

• Example: The client will request help using words in 4 out of 5 opportunities across three consecutive sessions.

b. Choose an Evidence-Based Intervention:

• Select a strategy supported by research (e.g., discrete-trial training, naturalistic teaching, differential reinforcement) and explain why its appropriate.
• Support your choice with at least one research citation.

c. Ensure Cultural and Contextual Fit:

• Explain how you would adapt your plan to the clients cultural background, family values, and environment.
• Discuss language, caregiver involvement, values, and available resources.

5. Reflection

(about 12 page)

• Reflect on what you learned and how this knowledge shapes your work as a behavior analyst.
• Explain how understanding the science of autism leads to more ethical, evidence-based decisions.

Reference Examples (Suggested Sources):

• Bauer, A. Z., Kriebel, D., Herbert, M. R., Bornehag, C. G., & Swan, S. H. (2024). Acetaminophen use in pregnancy and risk of autism spectrum disorder. JAMA, 332(1), 8595.
• Glanz, J. M., & McClure, D. L. (2021). Safety of vaccines used for routine immunization in the United States. Clinical Microbiology Reviews, 34(2), e00144-19.
• Hviid, A., Hansen, J. V., Frisch, M., & Melbye, M. (2019). Measles, mumps, rubella vaccination and autism: A nationwide cohort study. Annals of Internal Medicine, 170(8), 513520.
• National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. (2024). Autism spectrum disorder: Risk factors. NIEHS.