Externalizing behaviors and impairments in communication and adaptive functioning are the core defining features of the autism spectrum disorder (ASD). They are also the primary focus of interventions for children with ASD, as these conditions impact both the child’s adaptive behavior and parental mental health. This study examined the effectiveness of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) utilizing a case study of a 4-year-old boy diagnosed with ASD and comorbid disruptive behavior disorder. Behavioral observation data and psychometric tools with ecological validity were used across all assessments to evaluate intervention outcomes as assessed by the caregiver and the teacher. Results of both caregiver and teacher reports and observations indicated that 1) PCIT was effective in decreasing disruptive behaviors and improving parenting skills while reducing parental stress, and that 2) intervention gains had been maintained at the 3-month follow-up. Although the nature of this single case experimental study is a limitation, this article replicates and advances previous research examining PCIT success with children with autism and their parents while providing clinical implications for improving children’s adaptive behavior in a short time.
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