An Intervention Program Targeting Daily Adaptive Skills Through Executive Function Training for Adults with Autism...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychology
• Developmental Disorders

Background:

• Adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often face challenges with executive functioning (EF) and adaptive skills.
• A gap exists in evidence-based interventions for these difficulties in South Korea.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel intervention program to enhance everyday EF and adaptive skills in adults with high-functioning ASD.
• To evaluate the validity and feasibility of this new intervention through a pilot study.

Main Methods:

• A 10-week behavioral intervention was designed using literature reviews and focus groups.
• Seven adults with high-functioning ASD participated in a single-group pilot trial.
• Pre- and post-intervention assessments used self/parent-report questionnaires and skill-based instruments.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements were observed in everyday EF, including time management, organization, self-restraint, and emotion regulation.
• Adaptive functioning, particularly daily living skills, showed enhancement.
• Parents reported a significant decrease in emotion regulation difficulties.

Conclusions:

• The developed intervention demonstrates validity and feasibility for improving EF and adaptive skills in adults with ASD.
• This program offers a potential solution for a previously unmet need in South Korea.