Community and Family Implementation of Early Identification and Intervention in Autism
A Special Issue of Behavioral Sciences (ISSN 2076-328X).
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 1 December 2027 | Viewed by 57
Editors
Interests: autism spectrum disorder; early intervention; implementation science; health services research; community-engaged research
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Early identification and intervention have the potential to improve developmental outcomes, enhance family well-being, and promote meaningful participation across settings for autistic children. Despite substantial advances in autism research, significant gaps remain in the translation of evidence-based practices into community settings, particularly for populations historically underserved by healthcare, educational, and early intervention systems. This Special Issue seeks to advance research at the intersection of autism early identification, early intervention, and implementation science, with an emphasis on equitable, family-centered, and community-engaged approaches.
We welcome empirical studies that examine the effectiveness, adaptation, implementation, and dissemination of autism screening, diagnostic, and intervention practices across diverse contexts, including healthcare systems, community mental health settings, early intervention programs, and early childhood education environments. We are particularly interested in work that leverages community partnerships, builds on the strengths of autistic children and their families, and addresses disparities in service access, quality, and outcomes among underrepresented populations.
Topics of interest include implementation strategies that support the adoption, sustainment, and scale-up of evidence-based practices; adaptations for new populations, settings, and service systems; interventions designed to improve developmental, behavioral, and family outcomes; innovations in screening and diagnosis; and research that promotes timely, equitable access to high-quality autism services.
Dr. Allie Wainer
Dr. Melissa Maye
Guest Editors
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Keywords
- autism spectrum disorder
- early identification (screening, diagnosis)
- early intervention
- implementation science
- dissemination
- family-centered care
- health equity
- community-engaged research
- community partnered research
- service access
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