Research Review: Conceptualizing and measuring 'problem behavior' in…
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.
<p><em>This secondary systematic review examines how early-intervention autism research conceptualizes and measures “problem behavior.”</em></p><p><em>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.</em></p><p><em>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.</em></p><p><em>Source: “Research Review: Conceptualizing and Measuring ‘Problem Behavior’ in Early Intervention Autism Research—A Project AIM Secondary Systematic Review.” PubMed PMID: 40451187.</em></p>