Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have deficits in social, communicative and linguistic behavior and show various stereotypic responses. The characteristics of behavior have neural correlates in brain function. In this article, recent literatures on characteristics of early development of brain in children with ASD were reviewed, focusing on early brain overgrowth and inhibition of the development of neural network. Second, the method of early assessment and screening before and after 18 months was examined, using behavioral and neural measures. Third, the evidence-based behavioral interventions were analyzed in detail, emphasizing the need for earlier, naturalistic and comprehensive intervention corresponding to the individual responsiveness to the specific intervention. Finally, future researches were discussed for clarifying the relation between the behavioral intervention and brain plasticity.

特集 : 小嶋祥三君退職記念
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