Autism spectrum disorders and aac first edition by pat mirenda editor teresa iacono editor david r beukelman series editor joe reichle series editor 1 more 43 out of 5 stars 9 ratings isbn 13 978 1557669537 isbn 10 1557669538. Augmentative and alternative communication aac provides a means of effective communication to individuals with autism spectrum disorder asd many of whom are unable to use conventional speech effectively. The term autism spectrum disorder refers to a developmental disorder that can cause severe social communication and behavioral challenges it is often used as an umbrella term that has in the past described range of separate disorders including autistic disorder or classic autism aspergers disorder or asperger syndrome. For children adolescents and adults with autism aac can have a tremendous positive impact on communication social skills and behavior