Research

Research Evidence on RDI® (Relationship Development Intervention)

The following studies and publications provide the current peer-reviewed and foundational evidence for RDI®. They include program evaluations, pilot studies, qualitative reports, and foundational texts.

Program Evaluation & Theory

1. Gutstein, S. E., Burgess, A. F., & Montfort, K. (2007). Evaluation of the Relationship Development Intervention Program. Autism, 11(5), 397–411.
   This study followed 16 children over 30+ months, comparing diagnostic status (ADOS, ADI-R), flexibility, and school placement before and after RDI.
   PubMed
   
   

2. Gutstein, S. E. (2009). Empowering Families through Relationship Development Intervention: An Important Part of the Biopsychosocial Management of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Annals of Clinical Psychiatry, 21(3), 174–182.
   Review article summarizing the theoretical basis, methodology, and preliminary results of RDI.
   PubMed
   
   

3. Gutstein, S. E., & Sheely, R. K. (2023). Transforming the Well-Being of Persons with Autism. Psychoanalytic Inquiry, 43(3), 158–183.
   Discusses the potential of RDI to impact overall well-being in autistic individuals.
   DOI

Pilot Studies & Caregiver-Child Interaction

4. Larkin, F., Hollaway, L., Garlington, M., & Hobson, J. (2022). Guided Participation and Parental Tutoring in Preschool Children with Autism: A Pilot Study of RDI. Psychoanalytic Inquiry.
   Explores guided participation and parental scaffolding in preschool children using RDI principles.
   DOI
   
   

5. Hobson, J. A., Tarver, L., Beurkens, N., & Hobson, R. P. (2016). The Relation between Severity of Autism and Caregiver-Child Interaction: A Study in the Context of RDI. Journal of Abnormal Child Psychology, 44(4), 745–755.
   Examines how caregiver-child interaction varies with autism severity within an RDI framework.
   PubMed

Qualitative & Practitioner Perspectives

6. McAuliffe, T., Apps, B., & Setchell, J. (2023). Using Relationship Development Intervention with Autistic Children and Their Families: The Experiences of RDI Consultants in Australia. Journal of Developmental and Physical Disabilities.
   Interviews with RDI consultants highlight perceived benefits and challenges in real-world application.
   DOI
   
   

7. (Forthcoming, 2024). Understanding the Experiences of Families of Autistic Children Participating in RDI. International Journal of Disability, Development and Education.
   Explores caregiver perspectives on RDI’s impact on family relationships and child engagement.
   Preview

Foundational Books & Manuals

1. Autism Asperger’s: Solving the Relationship Puzzle (2001)
   Dr. Gutstein's foundational work introducing the RDI model, emphasizing the importance of emotional referencing, social coordination, and declarative language in fostering meaningful relationships. Autism Speaks
   
   

2. The RDI Book: Forging New Pathways for Autism, Asperger's and PDD with the Relationship Development Intervention Program (2009)
   A comprehensive guide detailing the RDI program's structure, objectives, and practical applications for families and professionals. Amazon
   
   

3. My Baby Can Dance: Stories of Autism, Asperger's and Success through the Relationship Development Intervention (RDI) Program (2005)
   An anthology featuring 11 family stories that illustrate the transformative impact of RDI on children with autism and Asperger's syndrome. ACT - Autism Community Training
   
   

4. The Relationship Development Intervention (RDI) Program and Education (2007)
   This book explores the integration of RDI principles within educational settings, offering insights into its application in schools and other learning environments. Goodreads