Success on the Spectrum: Combining behavior and nutritional techniques for ASD

The purpose of this thesis is to analyze in-depth the current research on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), outlining the prominently researched methods of treatment that have led to successful therapy for the ones being treated. Within this thesis, the definition of successful treatment of autistic individuals will be defined by how well the individuals can adapt to their employment opportunities and their own social lives. Success will be measured through the effectiveness of specific treatments, such as speech therapy and therapeutic-based diets, to better gauge the success rate of treatment for autistic individuals. The thesis itself will serve as a review of the currently proposed treatment methods, analyzing where the most successful treatments were derived from and then offering a summary conclusion on the overall scope of the research. Recommendations on future research will be made to encapsulate all the research provided through which a scholarly lens was applied. Overall, the best methods of treatment will involve both a dietary and occupational approach, so as to tackle any environmental or genetic origins of ASD. More specifically, through a combination of vitamin and mineral supplements to manage behavioral symptoms combined with Applied Behavioral Analysis techniques, ASD can be more effectively treated to improve an individual’s quality of life.