Editorial

We present a special issue entitled “Supporting Children and Adults with Severe Developmental Disabilities at Different Life Stages”.

In recent years, there has been growing recognition that support for a person with a developmental disability must be comprehensive, interdisciplinary, and continuous. One can trace a movement from a medical-centered to a psychosocial model of disability, from an object-oriented to a subject-oriented approach in the organization of care, from a differentiated to an integrative approach, and so on.

A.G. Asmolov contrasts the concept of psychological-pedagogical intervention on a child with a new concept – that of facilitating the child's development.

But what should professional help consist of? What needs to be done when working with a child so that, upon reaching adulthood, they can realize their potential and solve the new challenges that life places before them? What is important to know and understand about typical and atypical development in order to determine what steps are necessary in each specific case, and how to structure correctional work, education, and support?

In this issue of the journal “Autism and Developmental Disorders” practitioners share their experience working with children and adults with various developmental characteristics: new models of education, assistance in acquiring work skills, and experience in creating conditions for independent living for adults with mental disorders. Growing up involves not only possessing certain knowledge and skills but also the formation of an adult identity and the ability to make informed decisions – this issue is addressed in a review of Russian and international literature. The issue also presents research findings on the development of people with special needs and the effectiveness of existing support models for the transition to adulthood.

We hope that the articles we bring to your attention will be of interest to specialists working with children and adults with various developmental disabilities.