This book is a practical account of how people who attract autism labels can come to behave in ways that give rise to serious concerns in other people and, sometimes, themselves. The authors identify the range of needs that may be expressed through behaviours that cause concern and provide strategies for addressing both needs and behaviours.

John Clements is a clinical psychologist of over forty years' standing, specializing in the field of developmental disabilities. He has previously worked for the NHS and university system in the UK and jointly established the UK's first independent psychology practice specializing in issues for people with developmental disabilities. He has also worked as a behavior consultant in California, taking a particular interest in helping people with autism and their families.

General introduction. PART 1: PERSPECTIVES UPON THE ISSUES. 1. A view of autism. 2. Beyond autism - understanding human behaviour. PART 2: HELPFUL PRACTICES. 3. Maintaining a safe environment. 4. Understanding. 5. Social relating. 6. Well being. 7. Competence. 8. Obsessions. 9. Sensitivities. 10. Motivation. 11. Responding to behaviour - some additional thoughts. PART 3: MAKING IT HAPPEN. 12. Expectations. 13. Implementation. 14. Service provision issues. Appendix 1: Autism - supporters' help to explore the difficulties. Appendix 2: Identifying factors involved in a behaviour which gives cause for concern. Appendix 3: Constructive behavioural support - service evaluation guide. Resources. Index.