Evaluation of an adapted form of CBT for young people with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and anxiety

Abstract

Many children and young people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) experience varying levels of anxiety; in a review of 40 studies, White et al., (2009) reported that between 11 and 84 per cent of autistic children exhibited symptoms of anxiety. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is one approach that is used to address anxiety in autistic individuals. Autistic young people typically benefit from several adaptations to CBT as it is traditionally carried out. One such form of adapted CBT developed for autistic young people aged 12–14 is the exploring feelings work by Tony Attwood (Attwood, 2004). Families also had the opportunity to discuss their child’s ASD. For the purposes of this study, we used the Exploring Feelings for Anxiety workbook to provide six-eight sessions on an individual basis with young people and their parents. Researchers recruited participants that had received the exploring feelings sessions and had a pre-existing diagnosis of ASD. Eleven families took part in the research and contributed their feedback through a questionnaire developed by the service; including statements to rate as well as open-ended questions providing the opportunity for qualitative feedback. Data was transcribed, coded then analysed using a thematic analysis approach (Braun and Clarke, 2006). Results demonstrated several encouraging themes such as ‘others understanding the child better’ and ‘helpful strategies offered’. There are clear benefits for children and young people with ASD and their parents in receiving individual support. The researchers hope that future evaluations could provide a wider level of insight into children and young people’s experiences. Keywords: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD); anxiety; cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT); qualitative; evaluation.