Families were included if their affected child had been previously diagnosed with Autism or Asperger syndrome, had a level of intellectual functioning above the range of mental retardation (i.e., Full Scale, Verbal, and Performance IQ > 70), chronological age between 6 and 21 years, and an absence of significant medical or neurological disorders (including fragile X syndrome and tuberous sclerosis). Families were ascertained and recruited through the Acute Residential Treatment (ART) programs and outpatient child and adolescent services at McLean Hospital, as well as through associated hospitals and clinics. Brochures and a website were also utilized. Thirty-three families (133 participants) were enrolled in the study. Participation was voluntary.
