USE OF THE VINELAND ADAPTIVE BEHAVIOR SCALE WITH AUTISTIC CHILDREN AND THEIR PARENTS: FROM ASSESSMENT TO THE STRENGTHENING OF BONDS

In this article we report on our institutional practice in a day hospital for children diagnosed with autistic spectrum disorder. Our principal objective is to provide psychological care and support that takes into account the issues of both parents and caregivers, so as to develop a better understanding of the impact of symptoms on the child and on their relationships. To do so we make use of the VABS (Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale) with both parents and caregivers, recording their representations of the child's disorder, as well as their representations of his/her skills and emerging potential. We show how the VABS plays a mediating role in the institutional follow-up of a young girl with pervasive developmental disorder. The results bring to light the benefits of developing our clinical practice according to a plural and integrative institutional approach, particularly in relation to the parents of children with autistic spectrum disorder.