Research Review: Conceptualizing and measuring 'problem behavior' in early intervention autism research - a project AIM secondary systematic review.
Published May 9, 2026
A systematic review examining how early-intervention autism research defines and measures “problem behavior,” emphasizing the need for respectful, meaningful outcomes.
This secondary systematic review examines how early-intervention autism research conceptualizes and measures “problem behavior.”
The term can obscure communication, sensory, environmental, or unmet-support needs. This review does not mean that distress should be ignored; it supports careful, context-sensitive assessment and outcomes that matter to autistic people and families.
Research and support plans should avoid treating autistic traits themselves as problems to eliminate. Goals should be individualized, respectful, and attentive to wellbeing, communication, safety, and assent.
Source: “Research Review: Conceptualizing and Measuring ‘Problem Behavior’ in Early Intervention Autism Research—A Project AIM Secondary Systematic Review.” PubMed PMID: 40451187.
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