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Testing a cognitive behavioural therapy program for anxiety in autistic adolescents: a feasibility study
Tina R Kilburn1, Ronald M Rapee2, Heidi J Lyneham2
1Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Research Unit, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
Nordic Journal of Psychiatry
|May 1, 2024
Summary
This study adapted a cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) program for autistic adolescents with anxiety. The adapted program showed feasibility and positive outcomes, improving anxiety symptoms and school attendance.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by core developmental challenges.
- Co-occurring anxiety disorders affect up to 60% of autistic adolescents, impacting development and quality of life.
- Previous research indicates a manualized cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) program, 'Cool Kids - Autism Spectrum Adaptation (ASA)', is effective for children with autism and anxiety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the feasibility of adapting the 'Cool Kids - ASA' CBT program for adolescents with autism and co-occurring anxiety.
- To assess the potential benefits of an adolescent-tailored CBT intervention for this population.
Main Methods:
- Fifteen autistic adolescents (aged 14-17) with anxiety disorders participated.
- Data collected pre-, post-treatment, and at 3-month follow-up included program feedback, anxiety interview scores, and questionnaires on anxiety, life interference, and quality of life.
Main Results:
- 92% of families found the adapted program useful and recommended it.
- At follow-up, 55% no longer met criteria for their primary anxiety diagnosis, and 34% were free of all anxiety diagnoses.
- 60% of adolescents not attending school pre-treatment returned post-treatment.
Conclusions:
- The adapted 'Cool Kids - ASA' program is feasible for adolescents with autism and anxiety.
- The intervention shows potential for improving educational, developmental, and independence outcomes.
- Further randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are necessary to confirm the efficacy of the adolescent version.
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