Overview of meta-analyses on early intensive behavioral intervention for young children with autism spectrum disorders

J Autism Dev Disord. 2012 Apr;42(4):512-20. doi: 10.1007/s10803-011-1218-9.

Abstract

This paper presents an overview of 5 meta-analyses of early intensive behavioral intervention (EIBI) for young children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) published in 2009 and 2010. There were many differences between meta-analyses, leading to different estimates of effect and overall conclusions. The weighted mean effect sizes across meta-analyses for IQ and adaptive behavior ranged from g = .38-1.19 and g = .30-1.09, respectively. Four of five meta-analyses concluded EIBI was an effective intervention strategy for many children with ASDs. A discussion highlighting potential confounds and limitations of the meta-analyses leading to these discrepancies and conclusions about the efficacy of EIBI as an intervention for young children with ASDs are provided.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Behavior Therapy / methods*
  • Child Development Disorders, Pervasive / psychology
  • Child Development Disorders, Pervasive / therapy*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Early Intervention, Educational*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Meta-Analysis as Topic
  • Treatment Outcome