The paper traces the origins of the definitions of autism, notes controversies over its etiology, and discusses the wide variety of intervention approaches used. Psychoeducational approaches, such as play therapy and B. Bettelheim's psychoanalytic approach, are described and criticized in terms of premises and the anecdotal nature of evaluation…

Reviews evidence on biological etiology of autism and other pervasive developmental deviations, stressing necessity for providing early and accurate diagnosis for family. Discusses implications of downplaying individual pathology and concentrating on parental or family dysfunction. Presents components of psychoeducational model for diagnosis and…