questionnaires to aid the parents of autistic children where the place has developed its own assessment tools. The following tests are tools developed from just such a method. The GARS (Gilliam Autism Rating Scale) is designed to help identify and diagnose autism in individuals ages 3-22 years old. This test offers items grouped into subtests: stereotyped behavior, communication, social interaction, and developmental disturbances. The ASIEP-2 (Autism Screening Instrument for Educational Planning) a) examines behavior in the areas of: sensory, relating, body concept, language, and social self-help; b) sample vocal behavior; c) assess interaction; d) assess communication and e) determine learning rate. This test may be used with individuals from 18 months through adulthood. The CARS (Child Autism Rating Scale) and the CHAT (Checklist for Autism in Toddlers) are both screening devices for determining whether or not a child or toddler has developing autism. Dr. Rimlands E-2 Behavior Checklist has been used for 20 years to collect and update data on children showing autistic behavior. The PL-ADOS (Pre-Linguistic Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) is an observation scale designed for children less than 6 years who are suspected of having autism (Autism Society of America, 1999).There have been countless tests administered for the physical symptoms of autism. However, there is a growing trend in the research for chemical manipulation and treatment of autism. Ed Cook has led a study that revealed that autistic children "have a shortened form of the serotonin transporter gene" which leads researchers to believe this gene is a possible factor in autism (Holden, 1997). The evidence for this study lies in the antidepressants. These drugs "which increase the availability of serotonin, often suppress autism symptoms," such as those associated with aggression (Holden, 1997).Another series of tests were performed by McDougle and hi...
