Parents often rely on the knowledge and experience of others to explain the longitudinal outcomes in autism. Unfortunately, limitations keep parents from obtaining accurate and relevant information. First, professionals with limited experiences are not likely to understand the range of outcomes for persons with autism. Second, previous studies have used narrow explanations to define outcomes. Past researchers have generally defined good outcome as the development of a normal social life and independence by adulthood; and they have defined the best predictors as verbal and IQ levels. Because most individuals with autism continue to struggle with social relationships and need individualized supports, this outcome is rare. Parents, educators, and researchers need other frameworks now to characterize and conceptualize “good outcome.” Data on 46 individuals with autism will be used to present an alternative view of outcome. Some who would have been predicted to do poorly as adults because of their relatively low verbal, cognitive, and adaptive behavior levels were found to be leading satisfactory lives. To illustrate the multitude of variables that have an impact on outcome and to propose the claim that competency and quality of life are the best criteria for judging outcomes, we present four case studies.
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