Autism Research Group (ARG) announced today the launch of its pioneer non-profit organization highlighting its mission of placing individuals on the autism spectrum and their families first. ARG is founded on the principal of using science to improve the quality of life for individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) as well as their families and caregivers. Individuals with ASD have the right to live life to the fullest and this right transcends social, cultural, and economic barriers.

“Our organization does research that matters to families of children with autism and our mission is to share the results with the world. ARG’s research findings will allow more families to access effective treatment,” says ARG Executive Director Jonathan Tarbox, PhD, BCBA-D.

This launch coincides with the newly-released report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showing 1 in every 88 children in America has an autism spectrum disorder; a 78 percent increase since the study first began in 2002. The latest figure reconfirms that autism is more prevalent than juvenile diabetes, childhood cancer, and pediatric AIDS combined.  ASD is a range of complex neurodevelopmental disorders, characterized by social impairments, communication challenges, and restricted, repetitive, or stereotyped patterns of behavior. Autistic disorder is the most severe form of ASD, while other conditions along the spectrum include milder forms known as Asperger’s syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder and Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified.

“Our first step in reaching out to families affected by autism is our Parent-Generated Research Initiative. It’s designed to give parents a voice on what matters most to them” says Tarbox.

Parents can complete a 10-question survey at www.autismresearchgroup.org and ARG will use the input to design research programs that directly address the needs and preferences of families affected by autism.

ARG’s objectives include:

Innovate and test new treatments that hold promise for improving the lives of individuals with autism spectrum disorders

Increase awareness and access to treatments that are already proven to work

Conduct research to improve the effectiveness of proven treatments

Establish benchmarks to increase accountability for the effectiveness of services for individuals with autism spectrum disorders