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From Interdisciplinary to Integrated Care of the Child with Autism: the Essential Role for a Code of Ethics

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Abstract

To address the developmental deficits of children with autism, several disciplines have come to the forefront within intervention programs. These are speech-pathologists, psychologists/counselors, occupational-therapists/physical-therapists, special-education consultants, behavior analysts, and physicians/medical personnel. As the field of autism therapy moves toward a more comprehensive, holistic and interdisciplinary model, the complexity of an interdisciplinary service delivery model could pose significant challenges. The difficulty of carrying out this approach could lead to sub-par programs being established. With integration among the disciplines a necessity, the ethical principles and language common to all the contributing disciplines is argued as the appropriate integrating force. An outline of these principles and a draft code of ethics are offered to introduce high standards and expectations for all participating in such a program.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. STE Consultants, LLC, Berkeley, CA, USA

    David J. Cox

  2. 6725 Portola Drive, El Cerrito, CA, 94530, USA

    David J. Cox

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  1. David J. Cox
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Correspondence to David J. Cox.

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Cox, D.J. From Interdisciplinary to Integrated Care of the Child with Autism: the Essential Role for a Code of Ethics. J Autism Dev Disord 42, 2729–2738 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-012-1530-z

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