Autisim Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is a group of developmental
disabilities that can cause significant social, communication
and behavioral challenges that range from mild to serious. Great
strides have been made in defining and diagnosing autism. But
the mysteries of this disorder have not yet all been discovered
as the prevalence is increasing at a faster rate than any other
developmental disability in children. There is no known cause
for autism, and diagnosing autism relies on clinical judgment
and behavioral observations. This has prompted School of
Education and Human Development Assistant Professors Bryn Harris
and Erin Barton to partner for a closer look at autism. Their
research “Evaluating Autism Diagnostic Tools for Use with
Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Populations” garnered a
grant this fall from the Center for Faculty Development. The
Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates an average of one in
110 children in the U.S. has an ASD. Data also shows this
disorder is on average 4 to 5 time