Final answer:
The first empirically supported treatment for autism is the Lovaas treatment program, which is based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and focuses on reinforcing desired behaviors and reducing problematic behaviors through positive reinforcement techniques.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first empirically supported treatment for autism was the Lovaas treatment program. Lovaas, an American psychologist, developed Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), which focuses on reinforcing desired behaviors and reducing problematic behaviors through positive reinforcement techniques. This program has been shown to be effective in improving outcomes for children with autism.