1. Yoon CD, Terol AK, Meadan H, Lee JD. Gaze Behaviors and Social Communication Skills of Young Autistic Children: A Scoping Review. Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders;2026 (2026/06/01);13(2):249-263.

This review aimed to (a) identify gaze metrics and behavioral assessments used in eye-tracking studies investigating social communication skills of young autistic children and (b) examine the reported correlation between gaze behaviors and social communication skills. We conducted a systematic search process following the PRISMA statement. A total of 19 studies were included in this review. Collectively, six gaze metrics were quantified to describe gaze behaviors, and 10 behavioral assessments of social communication skills or autism characteristics were identified, which were subsequently analyzed by respective stimulus categories. The overall findings from studies that employed semi-naturalistic stimuli suggested that increased social attention, as well as fixating closer to fixation of neurotypical children, is related to better social communication skills of young autistic children. In addition, the overall findings from studies that employed non-semi-naturalistic or live-interaction stimuli suggested that more engagement in gaze movements between shared interests is related to better social communication skills of young autistic children. Findings have implications for early identification and intervention in autism and highlight the need for further research examining factors that may have contributed to some mixed findings on the relation between gaze behaviors and social communication skills.

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2. Douglas SN, Dada S, Tönsing K, Samuels A, Owusu P. Cultural Considerations in Caregiver-Implemented Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions: A Scoping Review. Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders;2026 (2026/06/01);13(2):264-277.

Globally, there is an increasing focus on interventions that are culturally relevant for children and families from diverse cultural, racial, and ethnic groups. We conducted a scoping review to evaluate what populations have been included in the caregiver research related to established naturalistic developmental behavioral interventions for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We also evaluated the extent to which these interventions have developed or adapted to be culturally relevant for use with caregivers of children with ASD using the Cultural Adaptation Checklist. Seventy studies met the inclusion criteria. Our review noted a paucity of research with diverse populations, and lack of description related to cultural adaptations of these interventions. Descriptions related to cultural adaptations tended to focus the least on persons, goals, and methods. Clinicians and researchers are encouraged to engage in cultural adaptations of interventions in consultations with communities in order to enhance interventions for culturally diverse groups.

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3. Simeoli R, Rega A, Cerasuolo M, Nappo R, Marocco D. Using Machine Learning for Motion Analysis to Early Detect Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review. Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders;2026 (2026/06/01);13(2):278-297.

Diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is typically performed using traditional tools based on behavioral observations. However, these diagnosis methods are time-consuming and can be misleading. Integrating machine learning algorithms with technological screening tools within the typical behavioral observations can possibly enhance the traditional assessment and diagnostic process. In the last two decades, to improve the accuracy and reliability of autism detection, many clinicians and researchers began to develop new screening methods by means of advanced technology like machine learning (ML). These methods include artificial neural networks (ANN), support vector machines (SVM), a priori algorithms, and decision trees (DT). Mostly, these methods have been applied to pre-existing datasets, derived from the standard diagnostic and assessment tools, to implement and test predictive models. On the other hand, the detection of new objective behavioral measures such as biomarkers could lead to a significant strengthening of existing screening tools. In the present study, we carried out a critical review of the literature about the latest findings in this field. The aim was to shed light about the effectiveness of using ML systems for motion analysis to enhance both clinical assessment and diagnostic processes. Specifically, we discussed the contribution of ML systems in promoting early diagnosis of ASD. The literature review showed that motion patterns ML analysis predicts ASD classification as accurately as that of classical gold standard tools. However, the application of these methods is still challenging, as discussed in this review.

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4. Zanatta A, Siew J, van der Paelt S, Warreyn P, Roeyers H. Developmental, Behavioural and NDBI Interventions in Autistic Children or at Elevated Likelihood of Autism: A Systematic Review of Neural Outcomes. Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders;2026 (2026/06/01);13(2):298-320.

According to the principle of neuroplasticity, early repeated and intense exposure to stimuli can lead to changes in brain structure. In line with this view, it has been argued that early interventions for autistic children could have an impact on their neural development. In the present systematic review, we synthesised the available evidence on neural outcomes after early behavioural, developmental and naturalistic developmental behavioural interventions in young autistic children or children at elevated likelihood of autism. Six out of seven selected studies observed post-intervention differences in neural activity and connectivity. However, we observed significant methodological variation and limitations across studies (e.g. small sample sizes). Here, we discuss the field-wide need to address these issues.

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5. van Noorden L, Gardiner S, Waddington H. Parent-Mediated Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions for Young Autistic Children: A Systematic Literature Review of Single-Case Research. Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders;2026 (2026/06/01);13(2):321-336.

Naturalistic developmental behavioral interventions (NDBIs) are a class of supports that may lend themselves to a parent-mediated approach. This systematic literature review synthesizes single-case research evaluations of parent-mediated NDBIs for young autistic children. Of the 353 articles screened, 17 were eligible for inclusion. Child outcome measures included engagement, joint attention, language/communication, imitation, and ‘compliance’/avoidance. Most studies found positive effects for at least some children on at least one measure. However, there were no consistently positive effects across studies. Most parents increased their NDBI fidelity, but many did not reach specified fidelity criteria. Only three studies met all Council of Exceptional Children quality indicators. These results suggest that parent-mediated NDBIs are a promising approach to supporting young autistic children, but more high-quality research is needed.

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6. Simpson K, Paynter J, Westerveld M, van der Meer L, Patrick L, Hogg G, Heussler H, Heyworth M, Gable A, Chandran HS, Bowen R, Adams D. Time to Change How We Measure Quality of Life and Well-Being in Autism: A Systematic Review. Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders;2026 (2026/06/01);13(2):337-352.

This review examines methods used to report on the QoL and/or well-being of autistic people. A search of four databases (June 2023) identified 256 studies that reported on the Qol and/or well-being of at least one autistic person. The quality of studies varied. Results were synthesised on who reported, who was reported on, how information was obtained including accommodations and community involvement. One-third used proxy informants, over 80% used generic measures of QoL and/or well-being, autistic people with intellectual impairment and communication disorders were underrepresented, one quarter included accommodations, and few studies included community involvement. Despite the growing research on QoL and well-being of autistic people, more accessible and inclusive research is required to understand autistic people’s experience.

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7. Liu C, Townes P, Panesar P, Lee SY, Devoe D, Arnold P, Crosbie J, Schachar R. Executive Function in ADHD and ASD: A Scoping Review. Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders;2026 (2026/06/01);13(2):353-366.

Executive functions are neurocognitive processes involved in regulating thought and action. It is unknown whether youth diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have similar executive functioning. This review aimed to synthesize the literature directly comparing executive functioning in youth with ASD, ADHD, and their comorbidity (ASD + ADHD). In the 58 included articles, ADHD and ASD exemplified impaired response inhibition, working memory, and attention compared to controls. There is little support that ASD + ADHD showed the combined deficits of the ASD and the ADHD groups, and these three groups cannot be easily identified based on EF executive function profiles alone. Further standardization of tasks and performance metrics are necessary to facilitate future evidence synthesis.

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8. Bahry S, Gerhardt PF, Weiss MJ, Driscoll NM, Leaf JB, Ayres KM, Cauchi J. Improving Outcomes for Adults with ASD by Targeting Meaningful Skill Acquisition Goals: A Review of the Literature and Available Assessments and Curricula. Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders;2026 (2026/06/01);13(2):367-386.

Outcomes in adulthood for individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are poor in every area assessed (e.g., postsecondary education, employment, living arrangements, health and safety). As such, it is critical that interventions target the best outcomes across the lifespan and improve the overall quality of life. Given that targeting meaningful skill-acquisition goals can help affect positive changes in these outcomes, the intention of this paper was to conduct a systematic literature review of the research examining what has been done to improve the quality of goals written by educational and behavior analytic practitioners. However, the literature review yielded so few references that the focus of this paper shifted to an examination of available assessment and curriculum tools that help practitioners to write meaningful goals. Implications and recommendations for guiding clinical practice and research questions are discussed.T

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9. McCulloch K, Van Biesen D, Noens I, Vanlandewijck YC. The Relationship Between Adaptive Behaviour and Motor Proficiency—A Systematic Review. Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders;2026 (2026/06/01);13(2):387-406.

The aim of this review is to explore the relationship between adaptive behaviour (AB) and motor proficiency (MP). Despite AB being one of the core criteria for the diagnosis of intellectual disability, no review into the relationship between AB and MP exists. Of the 23 final studies, 19 supported a relationship between AB (composite score and/or practical, social or conceptual domains) and MP. Six studies included intellectual functioning variables, all highlighting the importance of considering both AB and intellectual functioning in relation to MP. Overall, there is evidence to support a relationship between AB and MP. More research is required of high methodological quality, in a variety of population samples and including intellectual functioning data.

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10. Li Y, Lee GT, Qi Y, Xu S. A Systematic Review of Picture Exchange Communication System Interventions for Children and Adolescents on the Autism Spectrum in Mainland China. Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders;2026 (2026/06/01);13(2):407-423.

The picture exchange communication system (PECS) is an evidence-based intervention used to improve communication for people on the autism spectrum. Little is known, however, about the extent to which PECS is currently used with Chinese-speaking persons. Our systematic review identified 13 single-case design studies reporting on PECS interventions with a total of 22 participants. The results indicated that PECS increased non-vocal communication behavior for 19 participants, increased speech for six participants, and decreased problem behavior for five participants. Five studies reported social validity, three studies programmed for generalization, and nine studies reported maintenance effects. According to Reichow’s (2011) evaluation standards, thirteen studies met only weak criteria indicating that they did not provide good evidence for the effectiveness of PECS in Chinese-speaking persons on the autism spectrum. Implications for future research and practice are discussed.

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11. Zhong Q, Porter M. Autism Spectrum Disorder Symptoms in Individuals with a Primary Diagnosis of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Systematic Review. Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders;2026 (2026/06/01);13(2):424-441.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) represent two of the most prevalent neurodevelopmental conditions, with prevalence rates of 5–7% and 0.6–1%, respectively. Despite their conceptually distinct phenotypes, ADHD and ASD are highly comorbid. This review is aimed at examining and synthesising the prevalence and profile of ASD-like symptoms in individuals with a primary diagnosis of ADHD across the lifespan in accordance with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fifth Edition (DSM-5; APA, 2013) diagnostic criteria.

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12. Chen J, Yao D, Lin S, Yuan S, Wang M, Wu H, Zhang Q. Application of the Community-based Participatory Research in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Scoping Review. Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders;2026 (2026/06/01);13(2):442-451.

The World Health Organization’s (WHO) integrated approach to primary care differs from the traditional patient-centered approach to primary care, resulting in a gap that needs to be addressed. Recently, the Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) model has emerged as an alternative research approach to the traditional model, and has gained considerable attention in the field of autism research.The aim of this scoping review was to explore the pattern and effectiveness of CBPR in the ASD population. The findings suggest that CBPR is a promising and effective research model for skills enhancement and healthcare for autistic people. This review highlights the importance of using the CBPR model in ASD research which can help researchers build multi-partnerships with communities and other stakeholders to facilitate the design and implementation of health promotion programs.

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13. Mair APA, Nimbley E, McConachie D, Goodall K, Gillespie-Smith K. Understanding the Neurodiversity of Grief: A Systematic Literature Review of Experiences of Grief and Loss in the Context of Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders;2026 (2026/06/01);13(2):452-500.

This systematic review explores lived experiences of grief in the context of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), considering mental health impacts and how these experiences are expressed/understood. Reviewing qualitative research and grey literature centred on lived experience, 39 articles were identified through a systematic search of 8 databases and 1 page-ranked search engine. The articles were critically appraised, and results synthesised using thematic analysis and meta-synthesis. Four main themes and an overarching theme, titled Recognise the Unrecognised, emerged: Hidden Grief, Supported and Included, Understanding My Loss, and The Double Taboo of Death and Disability. The results indicate that grief often goes unrecognised in individuals with NDDs, especially following non-death losses. The implications of these findings and recommendations for future research are discussed.

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14. Wolpe SM. Promoting Success in College: A Scoping Review of Autistic Students’ Postsecondary Education Experiences. Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders;2026 (2026/06/01);13(2):501-519.

To identify and analyze peer-reviewed qualitative or mixed methods studies published in the last 10 years that examined autistic individuals’ perspectives on their postsecondary experiences.

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15. Good SR, Arora S, Townsend J, Mash L, Klein RM. Examining Autism Spectrum Using the Attention Network Test: A Meta-Analysis. Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders;2026 (2026/06/01);13(2):520-529.

Attentional deficits are common in autism spectrum disorder. This project aimed to assess three attentional networks (alerting, orienting, and executive control). We conducted a Bayesian hierarchical meta-analysis of studies that implemented the Attention Network Test or its variants to explore whether autistic individuals exhibited differences in the networks of attention when compared to typically developing controls. Ten studies were included in our analysis, comprising 421 children and adults with the age ranging from 4 to 58 years (M = 16.79). Through a Bayesian analysis, we find weak evidence that autistic participants are overall slower to respond than controls. Further between group comparisons suggest differences in the orienting and executive control networks.

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16. Yarger HA, Sarkar M, Harrington E, Redcay E. Autonomic Activity in Individuals with Autism and Anxiety Symptoms: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders;2026 (2026/06/01);13(2):530-555.

Autonomic activity has been identified as “atypical” in autistic relative to nonautistic individuals. In nonautistic individuals, atypical autonomic activity is associated with anxiety symptoms. Thus, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess whether atypical autonomic activity in autistic individuals is explained by the presence of anxiety symptoms. Specifically, we systematically reviewed studies investigating the association between cardiac indicators of autonomic activity (e.g., heart rate variability, respiratory sinus arrhythmia, heart rate response) and anxiety symptoms in autistic individuals. The systematic review identified 36 potential articles for inclusion (32 via databases and registers; 4 via hand searching), yielding 26 described in the qualitative review and 10 articles included in the meta-analysis or quantitative review (that were also included in the qualitative review). Results of the random effects meta-analysis revealed a significant association between respiratory sinus arrythmia collected at rest or baseline and anxiety symptoms (r = -.20).

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17. Casterman N, Rossignol M, Colomar A, Cassioli F. Thermoception in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Concise Systematic Review. Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders;2026 (2026/06/01);13(2):556-564.

Sensory processing atypicalities have been demonstrated in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Thermoception, a component of the somatosensory system crucial for survival, can benefit from an overview of the state-of-art in ASD. In this work, a PROSPERO registered (CRD42023412663) systematic review on thermoception in ASD is presented, following PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines. Our search encompassed databases including Pubmed, Scopus, PsycInfo, and Google Scholar (n = 1261). Included articles (n = 9) were written in English, experimental, peer-reviewed documents on thermoception in autism. As the ASD group shows hypo- (n = 3) or hypersensitivity (n = 2) or no discernible difference at times (n = 8) to either warm and/or cold innocuous stimuli, definitive conclusions are difficult to draw. Nevertheless, these aggregated results build cumulative knowledge and guide future research regarding the evaluation of thermoception in autistic individuals which could further increase their quality of life.

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