Pseudoscientific Therapies for Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview of the characteristics of pseudoscientific therapies provided to persons who meet the DSM-5 criteria for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a disabling developmental disability whose precise etiology remains elusive. A distinction is drawn between cures and treatments, noting that there are not yet any cures for ASD. A description is provided for the development of what are properly labeled research-supported interventions, a lengthy process of conducting increasingly well-controlled clinical experiments that help reduce the role of bias, placebo influences, the passage of time, and other potential confounds. In contrast, pseudoscientific therapies typically lack a substantial body of research studies and are supported more by anecdotal testimonies and scientifically implausible theories. Some pseudoscientific practices for ASD are promoted by persons who are genuinely misguided, perhaps unduly influenced by the apparent responses of their child to an intervention. But many promoters of bogus therapies are motivated by mendacious and financial reasons. Some guidelines are outlined that can be used to identify potentially pseudoscientific therapies, and selected examples of such ineffective treatments are illustrated. The ethical impropriety of mental health and other professional providing pseudoscientific therapies is discussed.