Literature Review of Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral I…

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Purpose

The purpose of this assignment is to evaluate the effectiveness of Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions (NDBIs) for autistic young children using an evidence-based practice (EBP) framework that includes research evidence and autistic community perspectives.

Research Question

The analysis must address the following PICO question:

For autistic young children (P), do Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions (NDBIs) (I), compared to more structured adult-led interventions (C), improve social communication and engagement outcomes (O)?

All components of the project must relate directly to this question.

Step 1: Understand the Intervention

Before reviewing research, clearly describe:

• What NDBIs are
• Core components (naturalistic teaching, child-led interaction, developmental principles, behavioral strategies)
• Examples (e.g., ESDM, PRT, EMT)
• Who they are designed for
• How they differ from structured adult-directed behavioral approaches

Step 2: Conduct a Literature Review

Locate at least 35 peer-reviewed primary research studies that evaluate NDBIs for young autistic children.

For each study:

• Identify the research design (RCT, quasi-experimental, single-subject, etc.)
• Identify participants (age range, diagnosis)
• Identify outcome measures (social communication, engagement, language)
• Summarize results
• Note strengths and limitations

Then synthesize across studies:

• Is evidence consistent?
• Are outcomes meaningful?
• What level of evidence is represented?

Do not list articles separately compare them.

Step 3: Evaluate the Comparison Condition

Because the PICO includes comparison to structured adult-led interventions:

• Describe what structured adult-led interventions typically involve
• Explain how they differ from NDBIs
• Note whether research directly compares these two approaches
• Discuss what the evidence suggests when comparing them

Step 4: Integrate Autistic Community Perspectives

Locate at least one autistic-authored perspective (article, blog, podcast, video) discussing:

• Early intervention
• Behavioral intervention
• Child-led approaches
• Neurodiversity

Explain:

• Do autistic perspectives align with NDBIs?
• Do NDBIs support autonomy and intrinsic motivation?
• Are there concerns about compliance-based models?
• How do these perspectives influence interpretation of research?

This section must explicitly connect to neurodiversity-affirming practice.

Step 5: Apply the Evidence-Based Practice Framework

Use all three components of EBP:

1. Best research evidence
2. Clinical expertise (what clinicians observe in practice)
3. Client/family values and autistic perspectives

Explain how these three components interact when making a decision about NDBIs.

Step 6: Draw Clinical Conclusions

Answer the PICO question directly.

Your conclusion must include:

• Whether NDBIs improve social communication and engagement
• Whether they appear more effective than structured adult-led approaches
• For whom they may be most appropriate
• Any limitations in current research
• A clear clinical recommendation

Avoid vague statements. Make a justified decision.

Step 7: Create DeliverablesPowerPoint Presentation

Include:

• Title slide
• PICO question
• Description of NDBIs
• Literature review findings
• Autistic perspective integration
• EBP analysis
• Clinical recommendation
• References

One-Page Handout (Front & Back)

Must include:

• The PICO question
• Brief description of NDBIs
• Table summarizing research evidence
• Key findings
• Clinical recommendation
• References (may use smaller font)

Use bullet points, visuals, and minimal dense text.