Do People with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Borderline Intellectual Functioning Need Targeted Interventions? A Feasibility Study on Social Competence Training

Abstract

Background: Despite an emerging trend to separate individuals with borderline intellectual functioning (BIF; 70 85) or intellectual disability (ID; IQ ≤ 70), social competence training specific to them was lacking. The CBT-Context-Based Social Competence Training for ASD (CBT-CSCA) is a social competence intervention developed for Chinese individuals with ASD. Purpose: The current study reports a pilot evaluation of the adaption of the CBT-CSCA on adolescents and adults with ASD and BIF. Method: Twenty-seven participants (aged 15 - 29, FSIQ 70 - 85) completed the 15-session intervention in a community centre. A pre-post intervention design was employed. Results: Participants showed satisfactory adherence and attendance rates. They reported satisfaction with knowledge acquisition and confidence in application. Parents reported significant improvements in social competence and general psychopathology across the pre-post intervention. Conclusion: The current study extends the application of the CBT-CSCA from individuals with AIF and ID to individuals with BIF. It illustrates a preliminary effort to provide targeted intervention for individuals with ASD and BIF as a distinct entity. The study calls for more research efforts, especially in validating outcome measures and developing interventions for individuals with ASD and BIF.