Twenty-four children with autism were randomly assigned to a clinic-directed group ... or to a parent-directed group that received intensive hours but less supervision by equally well-trained supervisors. Outcome after 4 years of treatment .... After combining groups, we found that 48% of all children showed rapid learning, achieved average posttreatment scores, and at age 7, were succeeding in regular education classrooms. Treatment outcome was best predicted by pretreatment imitation, language, and social responsiveness. These results are consistent with ... Lovaas, 1987; McEachin, Smith, & Lovaas, 1993.
