Context

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) or Pervasive Development Disorders (PDD) refers to a set of neurological conditions now affecting approximately 1:150 individuals in the United States. Whereas the term ASD is often used by educators and related practitioners, the term PDD is frequently used by medical and psychological professionals in the community.

These terms may be used interchangeably, each referring as an umbrella term to reflect the following related disorders: Asperger’s disorder/syndrome, autistic disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, Rett’s disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS). ASD/PDD affects children in the following areas, social development, communication/language development, and range of interests/behaviors. In addition, many individuals with ASD/PDD demonstrate rigidity under certain conditions as well as persistent thoughts and ritualistic behaviors.

ASD/PDDs are lifelong conditions hence the numbers of individuals entering adulthood is growing. Also increasing are educational, therapeutic, and vocational needs. There are a host of social, economic, legal, family, and emotional issues facing those with ASD/PDD and those involved in the lives of these individuals. 

What is AIREO?

Through research, education, intervention, training/preparation, and outreach we address conditions stemming from ASD/PDD. As researchers and educators we are committed to enhancing the understanding of ASD/PDD as we examine best practice educational and therapeutic methods across the lifespan, and prepare professionals and family members to effectively address the needs of those with ASD/PDD. Our goal is to identify and provide scientifically-based, practical, effective and efficient interventions to individuals and families.

How are we unique?

This initiative seeks to balance research, educational and therapeutic intervention, professional preparation, and outreach. Our applied research along with our clinical opportunities and in tandem with our teaching allows us to capture this balanced scope. Not only is this mission reflected within the KSU community, it is actualized through those projects we embrace with community partners.