Harnessing Parent–Child Interaction Therapy for the Behavioral Treatment of a Child with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex and Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

ABSTRACT Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a complex, rare genetic disorder often comorbid with severe autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with language and cognitive deficits. Despite the combination of TSC and ASD often leading to significant disruptive child behaviors, studies to treat ASD caused by TSC have thus far focused on pharmacological rather than behavioral interventions. This single-case study presents a 7-year-old Hispanic male “Michael,” diagnosed with TSC and ASD, and treated using Parent–Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) adapted to his language and developmental level. Upon graduation from PCIT, Michael’s aggression and disruptive behavior decreased across clinic, home, and school settings (per parent report), and several social communication behaviors had emerged and increased including functional play, looking toward others, and directing smiles and other emotions. This case study highlights the promise of PCIT for children with lower cognitive and language functioning, demonstrates the potential of naturalistic parent-coaching interventions for older children with ASD, and provides a detailed clinical strategy for the behavioral treatment of TSC and ASD.