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Townsend AN, Guzick AG, Hertz AG, Kerns CM, Goodman WK, Berry LN, Kendall PC, Wood JJ, Storch EA. Anger Outbursts in Youth with ASD and Anxiety: Phenomenology and Relationship with Family Accommodation. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2024; 55:1259-1268. [PMID: 36576640 PMCID: PMC10300226 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-022-01489-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Anger outbursts (AO) are associated with severe symptoms, impairment and poorer treatment outcomes for anxious children, though limited research has examined AO in youth with co-occurring autism and anxiety disorders. This study examined AO in children with autism and anxiety by evaluating clinical characteristics, family accommodation, and changes in AO following anxiety-focused treatment. The sample comprised 167 youth with autism and anxiety enrolled in a multi-site randomized clinical trial comparing standard care CBT for anxiety, CBT adapted for youth with autism, and usual care. Most participants (60%) had AO, which contributed to impairment above and beyond anxiety and autism. AO impacted functional impairment indirectly through a pathway of parental accommodation. AO reduced with anxiety-focused treatment. Findings highlight that AO are common in this population and uniquely contribute to functional impairment, indicating a need for direct targeting in treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allie N Townsend
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, 1977 Butler Blvd, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Andrew G Guzick
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, 1977 Butler Blvd, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Alyssa G Hertz
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, 1977 Butler Blvd, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Connor M Kerns
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Wayne K Goodman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, 1977 Butler Blvd, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Leandra N Berry
- Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Philip C Kendall
- Department of Psychology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jeffrey J Wood
- Department of Education, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Eric A Storch
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, 1977 Butler Blvd, Houston, TX, USA.
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2
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Spencer SD, Pinciotti CM, Murphy C, Hertz A, Wiese AD, Wood JJ, Kendall PC, Storch EA. Concurrent Validity of the Anxiety Disorders Section of the Anxiety Disorder Interview Schedule- Autism Spectrum Addendum (ADIS-ASA) in Autistic Youth. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06496-y. [PMID: 39096461 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06496-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Examine the concurrent validity of specific Anxiety Disorders Section of the Anxiety Disorder Interview Schedule for DSM-IV-Autism Spectrum Addendum (ADIS-ASA)-Parent Interview in a sample of 167 autistic youth who met diagnostic criteria for an anxiety-related disorder (Mage = 9.91; 78.4% male; 82% non-Hispanic; 77.67% White). METHODS Concurrent validity of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM)-defined ADIS-ASA anxiety disorder diagnostic caseness was examined via relations with (a) parent-reported dimensions of youth anxiety symptomology and (b) dimensional measures of youth anxiety-related functional impairment, respectively, using logistic regression models and point-biserial correlations. RESULTS Significant relations were found between separation anxiety disorder and social anxiety disorder (but not generalized anxiety disorder nor obsessive-compulsive disorder) caseness, respectively, and theoretically consistent facets of dimensional youth anxiety symptomology. Relations between ADIS-ASA diagnostic caseness and youth functional impairment-related variables revealed that only separation anxiety disorder demonstrated robust evidence of convergent validity. CONCLUSION Despite mixed findings concerning relations between ADIS-ASA anxiety disorder diagnostic caseness and dimensional measures of anxiety severity and anxiety-related impairment, the present findings provide further support for the status of the ADIS-ASA as a gold standard for assessment of anxiety in autistic youth. This work also highlights the importance of continuing to improve precision in measurement of anxiety symptomology in autistic youth, with implications for clinical assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel D Spencer
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Caitlin M Pinciotti
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Callie Murphy
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Alyssa Hertz
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Andrew D Wiese
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jeffrey J Wood
- Department of Education, University of California, Los Angeles, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Philip C Kendall
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Temple University, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Eric A Storch
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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3
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Fuselier MN, Guzick AG, Bakhshaie J, Wood JJ, Kendall PC, Kerns CM, Small BJ, Goodman WK, Storch EA. Examining the Relationship Between Anxiety Severity and Autism-Related Challenges During Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Children with Autism. J Autism Dev Disord 2024; 54:1849-1856. [PMID: 36847894 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-023-05912-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Using data from a randomized clinical trial evaluating cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for children with autism and co-occurring anxiety, this study examined the relationship between autism features and anxiety symptoms throughout CBT. METHODS Two multilevel mediation analyses were run which examined the mediating role of changes in anxiety for changes in two core features of autism, (a) repetitive and restrictive behaviors (RRBs) and (b) social communication/interaction impairments, between pre- and post-treatment. RESULTS Indirect effects between time and autism characteristics were significant for both models, indicating that as anxiety changes, so do RRBs and social communication/interaction as the outcomes respectively. CONCLUSION Findings suggest a bidirectional relationship between anxiety and autism features. Implications of these findings are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine N Fuselier
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, 1977 Butler Blvd, Suite 4-400, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Andrew G Guzick
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, 1977 Butler Blvd, Suite 4-400, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jafar Bakhshaie
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jeffrey J Wood
- Department of Education, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Philip C Kendall
- Department of Psychology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Connor M Kerns
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Brent J Small
- School of Aging Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Wayne K Goodman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, 1977 Butler Blvd, Suite 4-400, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Eric A Storch
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, 1977 Butler Blvd, Suite 4-400, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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Norris LA, Rabner JC, Storch EA, Wood JJ, Kerns C, Lewin AB, Small BJ, Kendall PC. Idiographic Coping Outcomes in Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Co-Occurring Anxiety: Results from the TAASD Study. J Autism Dev Disord 2023; 53:4711-4718. [PMID: 36129626 PMCID: PMC10027616 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05716-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Versions of cognitive behavioral therapy (Coping Cat, CC; Behavioral Interventions for Anxiety in Children with Autism, BIACA) have shown efficacy in treating anxiety among youth with autism spectrum disorder. Measures of efficacy have been primarily nomothetic symptom severity assessments. The current study examined idiographic coping outcomes in the Treatment of Anxiety in Autism Spectrum Disorder study (N = 167). Longitudinal changes in coping with situations individualized to youth fears (Coping Questionnaire) were examined across CC, BIACA and treatment as usual (TAU) in a series of multilevel models. CC and BIACA produced significantly greater improvements than TAU in caregiver-reported coping. Youth report did not reflect significant differences. Results show the efficacy of CC and BIACA in improving idiographic caregiver-, but not youth-, reported youth coping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley A Norris
- Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Brown University, Providence, USA.
| | | | | | - Jeffrey J Wood
- University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Connor Kerns
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Hollocks MJ, Wood JJ, Storch EA, Cho AC, Kerns CM, Kendall PC. Reward Sensitivity Predicts the Response to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Children with Autism and Anxiety. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL FOR THE SOCIETY OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY, AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION, DIVISION 53 2023; 52:811-818. [PMID: 35072578 PMCID: PMC9308830 DOI: 10.1080/15374416.2022.2025596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for anxiety in youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, research has yet to examine what cognitive characteristics may influence treatment response. The current study investigated decision-making ability and social cognition as potential (a) predictors of differential treatment response to two versions of CBT and (b) moderators of the effect of treatment condition. METHOD The study included 148 children (mean age = 9.8 years) with interfering anxiety and a diagnosis of ASD who were enrolled in a randomized clinical trial comparing two versions of CBT for anxiety (standard and adapted for ASD). Participants completed pretreatment measures of decision-making ability (adapted Iowa Gambling Task) and social cognition (Strange Stories) and analyses tested whether task performance predicted treatment response across and between (moderation) treatment conditions. RESULTS Our findings indicate that decision-making ability moderated treatment outcomes in youth with ASD and anxiety, with a better decision-making performance being associated with higher post-treatment anxiety scores for those who received standard, not adapted, CBT. CONCLUSIONS Children with ASD and anxiety who are more sensitive to reward contingencies and reinforcement may benefit more from adapted CBT approaches that work more explicitly with reward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Hollocks
- Department of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London
- Service for Complex Autism and Associated Neurodevelopmental Disorders, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust
| | - Jeffrey J Wood
- Department of Education, University of California, Los Angeles
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Eric A Storch
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine
| | - An-Chuen Cho
- Department of Education, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Connor M Kerns
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia
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Predictors of Suicidal Thoughts in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Anxiety or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: The Unique Contribution of Externalizing Behaviors. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2022; 53:223-236. [PMID: 33462740 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-020-01114-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are at elevated risk of suicidal ideation, particularly those with comorbid anxiety disorders and/or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). We investigated the risk factors associated with suicidal ideation in 166 children with ASD and comorbid anxiety disorders/OCD, and the unique contribution of externalizing behaviors. Suicidal ideation was reported in the child sample by 13% of parents. Controlling for child age, sex, and IQ, perceived loneliness positively predicted the likelihood of suicidal ideation. In addition, externalizing behaviors positively predicted suicidal ideation, controlling for all other factors. Reliance on parental report to detect suicidal ideation in youth with ASD is a limitation of this study. Nonetheless, these findings highlight the importance of assessing and addressing suicidal ideation in children with ASD and comorbid anxiety disorders/OCD, and more importantly in those with elevated externalizing behaviors and perceptions of loneliness.
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7
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László K, Kiss O, Vörös D, Mintál K, Ollmann T, Péczely L, Kovács A, Zagoracz O, Kertes E, Kállai V, László B, Hormay E, Berta B, Tóth A, Karádi Z, Lénárd L. Intraamygdaloid Oxytocin Reduces Anxiety in the Valproate-Induced Autism Rat Model. Biomedicines 2022; 10:405. [PMID: 35203614 PMCID: PMC8962302 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10020405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder affecting about 1.5% of children, and its prevalence is increasing. Anxiety is one of the most common comorbid signs of ASD. Despite the increasing prevalence, the pathophysiology of ASD is still poorly understood, and its proper treatment has not been defined yet. In order to develop new therapeutic approaches, the valproate- (VPA) induced rodent model of autism can be an appropriate tool. Oxytocin (OT), as a prosocial hormone, may ameliorate some symptoms of ASD. METHODS In the present study, we investigated the possible anxiolytic effect of intraamygdaloid OT on VPA-treated rats using the elevated plus maze test. RESULTS Our results show that male Wistar rats prenatally exposed to VPA spent significantly less time in the open arms of the elevated plus maze apparatus and performed significantly less head dips from the open arms. Bilateral OT microinjection into the central nucleus of the amygdala increased the time spent in the open arms and the number of head dips and reduced the anxiety to the healthy control level. An OT receptor antagonist blocked the anxiolytic effects of OT. The antagonist by itself did not influence the time rats spent in the open arms. CONCLUSIONS Our results show that intraamygdaloid OT has anxiolytic effects in autistic rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristóf László
- Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (O.K.); (D.V.); (K.M.); (T.O.); (L.P.); (A.K.); (O.Z.); (E.K.); (V.K.); (B.L.); (E.H.); (B.B.); (A.T.); (Z.K.); (L.L.)
- Neuroscience Center, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Orsolya Kiss
- Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (O.K.); (D.V.); (K.M.); (T.O.); (L.P.); (A.K.); (O.Z.); (E.K.); (V.K.); (B.L.); (E.H.); (B.B.); (A.T.); (Z.K.); (L.L.)
- Neuroscience Center, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Dávid Vörös
- Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (O.K.); (D.V.); (K.M.); (T.O.); (L.P.); (A.K.); (O.Z.); (E.K.); (V.K.); (B.L.); (E.H.); (B.B.); (A.T.); (Z.K.); (L.L.)
- Neuroscience Center, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Kitti Mintál
- Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (O.K.); (D.V.); (K.M.); (T.O.); (L.P.); (A.K.); (O.Z.); (E.K.); (V.K.); (B.L.); (E.H.); (B.B.); (A.T.); (Z.K.); (L.L.)
- Neuroscience Center, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Tamás Ollmann
- Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (O.K.); (D.V.); (K.M.); (T.O.); (L.P.); (A.K.); (O.Z.); (E.K.); (V.K.); (B.L.); (E.H.); (B.B.); (A.T.); (Z.K.); (L.L.)
- Neuroscience Center, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - László Péczely
- Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (O.K.); (D.V.); (K.M.); (T.O.); (L.P.); (A.K.); (O.Z.); (E.K.); (V.K.); (B.L.); (E.H.); (B.B.); (A.T.); (Z.K.); (L.L.)
- Neuroscience Center, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Anita Kovács
- Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (O.K.); (D.V.); (K.M.); (T.O.); (L.P.); (A.K.); (O.Z.); (E.K.); (V.K.); (B.L.); (E.H.); (B.B.); (A.T.); (Z.K.); (L.L.)
- Neuroscience Center, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Olga Zagoracz
- Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (O.K.); (D.V.); (K.M.); (T.O.); (L.P.); (A.K.); (O.Z.); (E.K.); (V.K.); (B.L.); (E.H.); (B.B.); (A.T.); (Z.K.); (L.L.)
- Neuroscience Center, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Erika Kertes
- Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (O.K.); (D.V.); (K.M.); (T.O.); (L.P.); (A.K.); (O.Z.); (E.K.); (V.K.); (B.L.); (E.H.); (B.B.); (A.T.); (Z.K.); (L.L.)
- Neuroscience Center, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Veronika Kállai
- Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (O.K.); (D.V.); (K.M.); (T.O.); (L.P.); (A.K.); (O.Z.); (E.K.); (V.K.); (B.L.); (E.H.); (B.B.); (A.T.); (Z.K.); (L.L.)
- Neuroscience Center, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Bettina László
- Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (O.K.); (D.V.); (K.M.); (T.O.); (L.P.); (A.K.); (O.Z.); (E.K.); (V.K.); (B.L.); (E.H.); (B.B.); (A.T.); (Z.K.); (L.L.)
- Neuroscience Center, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Edina Hormay
- Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (O.K.); (D.V.); (K.M.); (T.O.); (L.P.); (A.K.); (O.Z.); (E.K.); (V.K.); (B.L.); (E.H.); (B.B.); (A.T.); (Z.K.); (L.L.)
- Neuroscience Center, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Beáta Berta
- Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (O.K.); (D.V.); (K.M.); (T.O.); (L.P.); (A.K.); (O.Z.); (E.K.); (V.K.); (B.L.); (E.H.); (B.B.); (A.T.); (Z.K.); (L.L.)
- Neuroscience Center, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Attila Tóth
- Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (O.K.); (D.V.); (K.M.); (T.O.); (L.P.); (A.K.); (O.Z.); (E.K.); (V.K.); (B.L.); (E.H.); (B.B.); (A.T.); (Z.K.); (L.L.)
- Neuroscience Center, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Karádi
- Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (O.K.); (D.V.); (K.M.); (T.O.); (L.P.); (A.K.); (O.Z.); (E.K.); (V.K.); (B.L.); (E.H.); (B.B.); (A.T.); (Z.K.); (L.L.)
- Neuroscience Center, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- Szentágothai Center, Molecular Endocrinology and Neurophysiology Research Group, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - László Lénárd
- Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (O.K.); (D.V.); (K.M.); (T.O.); (L.P.); (A.K.); (O.Z.); (E.K.); (V.K.); (B.L.); (E.H.); (B.B.); (A.T.); (Z.K.); (L.L.)
- Neuroscience Center, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- Szentágothai Center, Molecular Endocrinology and Neurophysiology Research Group, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
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Frank HE, Kagan ER, Storch EA, Wood JJ, Kerns C, Lewin AB, Small BJ, Kendall PC. Accommodation of Anxiety in Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Results from the TAASD Study. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL FOR THE SOCIETY OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY, AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION, DIVISION 53 2022; 51:219-229. [PMID: 32511015 PMCID: PMC7722072 DOI: 10.1080/15374416.2020.1759075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Objective: Accommodation, or the ways in which families modify their routines and expectations in response to a child's anxiety, is common and interferes with anxiety treatment outcomes. However, little research has examined family accommodation among youth with autism spectrum disorder and anxiety. The current study aimed to (a) identify pre-treatment correlates of accommodation, (b) examine changes in accommodation after treatment, and (c) assess relationships between accommodation and post-treatment anxiety severity.Method: The sample consisted of 167 youth (mean age = 9.90 years; 79.6% male; 18% Latinx) with clinically significant anxiety and a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder who were enrolled in a randomized clinical trial comparing two cognitive behavioral therapy interventions for anxiety and treatment-as-usual. Participants were evaluated for symptom severity and family accommodation at pre- and post-treatment.Results: Results indicated that clinician-rated anxiety severity and parent-rated externalizing behaviors and autism spectrum disorder severity significantly predicted pre-treatment accommodation. Accommodation significantly decreased from pre- to post-treatment and non-responders showed significantly higher accommodation at post-treatment compared to responders. Finally, youth with higher pre-treatment accommodation had higher post-treatment anxiety.Conclusions: Findings indicate that accommodation for anxiety is common among youth with autism spectrum disorder and anxiety. Furthermore, accommodation is implicated in treatment outcomes and should be targeted in treatment for youth with autism spectrum disorder and anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah E. Frank
- Temple University, Philadelphia, PA,Corresponding author: Hannah Frank, M.A., 1701 N 13th St., Philadelphia, PA 19122,
| | | | | | | | - Connor Kerns
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Cascio MA, Weiss JA, Racine E. Person-Oriented Research Ethics to Address the Needs of Participants on the Autism Spectrum. Ethics Hum Res 2021; 42:2-16. [PMID: 32937033 DOI: 10.1002/eahr.500064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Research ethics scholarship often attends to vulnerability. People with autism may be vulnerable in research, but are also vulnerable to unjust exclusion from participation. Addressing the needs of participants with autism can facilitate inclusion and honor the bioethics principle of respect for persons while accounting for risk and vulnerability. Drawing from a review of the literature and informed by a moral deliberation process involving a task force of stakeholders (including autistic people and parents of autistic people), we use the model of person-oriented research ethics to identify several practical strategies researchers can use to address these needs and foster inclusion. Strategies include using multiple means of communication, addressing the sensory environment, preparing participants in advance, and accounting for social context. These practical strategies are not just methodological or design choices; they are inherently related to ethical issues. Method and design choices fulfill ethical aspirations by facilitating inclusion, reducing discomfort, and focusing on individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ariel Cascio
- Assistant professor in the art of medicine at Central Michigan University College of Medicine and was a postdoctoral fellow at the Pragmatic Health Ethics Research Unit at the Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal when this work was conducted
| | - Jonathan A Weiss
- Associate professor in the Department of Psychology at York University
| | - Eric Racine
- Full research professor at the Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal and Université de Montréal as well as the director of Pragmatic Health Ethics
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10
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Helverschou SB, Bakken TL, Berge H, Bjørgen TG, Botheim H, Hellerud JA, Helseth I, Hove O, Johansen PA, Kildahl AN, Ludvigsen LB, Nygaard S, Rysstad A, Wigaard E, Howlin P. Preliminary Findings From a Nationwide, Multicenter Mental Health Service for Adults and Older Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorder and ID. JOURNAL OF POLICY AND PRACTICE IN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/jppi.12366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sissel Berge Helverschou
- NevSom ‐ Norwegian Centre of Expertise for Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Hypersomnias Oslo University Hospital Norway
| | - Trine Lise Bakken
- NevSom ‐ Norwegian Centre of Expertise for Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Hypersomnias Oslo University Hospital Norway
| | - Heidi Berge
- Specialized Habilitation Service, Nordmøre and Romsdal, Møre and Romsdal Hospital Trust Norway
| | | | - Henrik Botheim
- Specialized Habilitation Service, Sunnmøre, Møre and Romsdal Hospital Trust Norway
| | - Jane Askeland Hellerud
- NevSom ‐ Norwegian Centre of Expertise for Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Hypersomnias Oslo University Hospital Norway
| | - Ingunn Helseth
- Department of Mental Health, Regional Section Autism and Intellectual Disability Mental Health Helse Fonna Hospital Trust Norway
| | - Oddbjørn Hove
- Department of Research and Innovation/Department of Mental Health, Regional Section Autism and Intellectual Disability Mental Health Helse Fonna Hospital Trust Norway
| | | | - Arvid Nikolai Kildahl
- Regional Section Mental Health, Intellectual Disabilities/Autism and NevSom—Norwegian Centre of Expertise for Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Hypersomnia Oslo University Hospital Norway
| | - Linn Beate Ludvigsen
- Department of Psychiatry, Section Intellectual Disability and Autism Vestre Viken Hospital Trust Norway
| | - Sissel Nygaard
- Department of Psychiatry, Section Specialized Habilitation Nord‐Trøndelag Hospital Trust Norway
| | - Anne Rysstad
- Department of Psychiatry, Section Intellectual Disability and Autism Vestre Viken Hospital Trust Norway
| | - Elisabeth Wigaard
- Department of Psychiatry Section Intellectual Disability and Autism, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust Norway
| | - Patricia Howlin
- Department of Psychology King's College LondonInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience London UK
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11
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James AC, Reardon T, Soler A, James G, Creswell C. Cognitive behavioural therapy for anxiety disorders in children and adolescents. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2020; 11:CD013162. [PMID: 33196111 PMCID: PMC8092480 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013162.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous Cochrane Reviews have shown that cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is effective in treating childhood anxiety disorders. However, questions remain regarding the following: up-to-date evidence of the relative efficacy and acceptability of CBT compared to waiting lists/no treatment, treatment as usual, attention controls, and alternative treatments; benefits across a range of outcomes; longer-term effects; outcomes for different delivery formats; and amongst children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and children with intellectual impairments. OBJECTIVES To examine the effect of CBT for childhood anxiety disorders, in comparison with waitlist/no treatment, treatment as usual (TAU), attention control, alternative treatment, and medication. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Common Mental Disorders Controlled Trials Register (all years to 2016), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, Embase, and PsycINFO (each to October 2019), international trial registries, and conducted grey literature searches. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials of CBT that involved direct contact with the child, parent, or both, and included non-CBT comparators (waitlist/no treatment, treatment as usual, attention control, alternative treatment, medication). Participants were younger than age 19, and met diagnostic criteria for an anxiety disorder diagnosis. Primary outcomes were remission of primary anxiety diagnosis post-treatment, and acceptability (number of participants lost to post-treatment assessment), and secondary outcomes included remission of all anxiety diagnoses, reduction in anxiety symptoms, reduction in depressive symptoms, improvement in global functioning, adverse effects, and longer-term effects. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard methodological procedures as recommended by Cochrane. We used GRADE to assess the quality of the evidence. MAIN RESULTS We included 87 studies and 5964 participants in quantitative analyses. Compared with waitlist/no treatment, CBT probably increases post-treatment remission of primary anxiety diagnoses (CBT: 49.4%, waitlist/no treatment: 17.8%; OR 5.45, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.90 to 7.60; n = 2697, 39 studies, moderate quality); NNTB 3 (95% CI 2.25 to 3.57) and all anxiety diagnoses (OR 4.43, 95% CI 2.89 to 6.78; n = 2075, 28 studies, moderate quality). Low-quality evidence did not show a difference between CBT and TAU in post-treatment primary anxiety disorder remission (OR 3.19, 95% CI 0.90 to 11.29; n = 487, 8 studies), but did suggest CBT may increase remission from all anxiety disorders compared to TAU (OR 2.74, 95% CI 1.16 to 6.46; n = 203, 5 studies). Compared with attention control, CBT may increase post-treatment remission of primary anxiety disorders (OR 2.28, 95% CI 1.33 to 3.89; n = 822, 10 studies, low quality) and all anxiety disorders (OR 2.75, 95% CI 1.22 to 6.17; n = 378, 5 studies, low quality). There was insufficient available data to compare CBT to alternative treatments on post-treatment remission of primary anxiety disorders, and low-quality evidence showed there may be little to no difference between these groups on post-treatment remission of all anxiety disorders (OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.35 to 2.23; n = 401, 4 studies) Low-quality evidence did not show a difference for acceptability between CBT and waitlist/no treatment (OR 1.09, 95% CI 0.85 to 1.41; n=3158, 45 studies), treatment as usual (OR 1.37, 95% CI 0.73 to 2.56; n = 441, 8 studies), attention control (OR 1.00, 95% CI 0.68 to 1.49; n = 797, 12 studies) and alternative treatment (OR 1.58, 95% CI 0.61 to 4.13; n=515, 7 studies). No adverse effects were reported across all studies; however, in the small number of studies where any reference was made to adverse effects, it was not clear that these were systematically monitored. Results from the anxiety symptom outcomes, broader outcomes, longer-term outcomes and subgroup analyses are provided in the text. We did not find evidence of consistent differences in outcomes according to delivery formats (e.g. individual versus group; amount of therapist contact time) or amongst samples with and without ASD, and no studies included samples of children with intellectual impairments. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS CBT is probably more effective in the short-term than waiting lists/no treatment, and may be more effective than attention control. We found little to no evidence across outcomes that CBT is superior to usual care or alternative treatments, but our confidence in these findings are limited due to concerns about the amount and quality of available evidence, and we still know little about how best to efficiently improve outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony C James
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Highfield Unit, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Tessa Reardon
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- School of Psychology & Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, UK
| | | | | | - Cathy Creswell
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- School of Psychology & Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, UK
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12
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Ramirez AC, Grebe SC, McNeel MM, Limon DL, Schneider SC, Berry LN, Goin-Kochel RP, Cepeda SL, Voigt RG, Salloum A, Storch EA. Parent-led, stepped-care cognitive-behavioral therapy for youth with autism and co-occurring anxiety: study rationale and method. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PSIQUIATRIA (SAO PAULO, BRAZIL : 1999) 2020; 42:638-645. [PMID: 32520166 PMCID: PMC7678910 DOI: 10.1590/1516-4446-2020-0897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Anxiety disorders affect up to 50% of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and are significantly impairing to the person affected, as well as to their loved ones. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been established as the gold-standard treatment for anxiety disorders among typically developing youth and adults, and demonstrates similar efficacy among youth with high-functioning autism (HFA). Many CBT interventions utilize a "full-package" treatment approach to treat co-occurring anxiety in youth with ASD. However, these service delivery systems are often therapist-intensive, costly, and impractical, thereby compromising full engagement and treatment adherence. This paper describes the design, rationale, and methodology of a study examining stepped-care CBT for youth with HFA and co-occurring anxiety - a clinical trial examining the efficacy of low-intensity, parent-led CBT as the first line of treatment and utilizing a more intensive, therapist-led intervention for nonresponders. The study will evaluate the potential benefits of stepped-care and parent-led therapist-assisted interventions, predictors of treatment response, and the economic value of using a stepped-care model. Implications for practice will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana C. Ramirez
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Autism Center, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Stacey C. Grebe
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Morgan M. McNeel
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Danica L. Limon
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Autism Center, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sophie C. Schneider
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Leandra N. Berry
- Autism Center, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Robin P. Goin-Kochel
- Autism Center, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sandra L. Cepeda
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Robert G. Voigt
- Autism Center, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Meyer Center for Developmental Pediatrics, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Alison Salloum
- School of Social Work, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Eric A. Storch
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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13
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Therapeutic Alliance Formation for Adolescents and Young Adults with Autism: Relation to Treatment Outcomes and Client Characteristics. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 51:1446-1457. [PMID: 32737670 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04623-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Therapeutic alliance may influence treatment outcomes for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The present study examined the trajectory of alliance, observationally-measured at four timepoints during a 16-week mindfulness-based treatment targeting emotion regulation problems in adolescents and young adults with ASD (n = 37, mean age = 15.28, 78.40% male). Variability in alliance as a function of client characteristics and the degree to which alliance predicted emotion regulation outcomes were assessed using parent-report forms. Results demonstrate that alliance fluctuates throughout treatment. Moreover, stronger alliance predicts decreased dysphoria at posttreatment. Results also suggest that increased ASD symptom severity and depression predict weaker alliance early and throughout treatment. Findings highlight a need for clinicians to consider the importance of developing strong alliance for clients with ASD.
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14
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Cascio MA, Weiss JA, Racine E. Person-oriented ethics for autism research: Creating best practices through engagement with autism and autistic communities. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2020; 24:1676-1690. [DOI: 10.1177/1362361320918763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Research ethics is an important part of any study. Ethics goes beyond ethics committee approval and consent documents. It addresses broader issues of respect, inclusion, and empowerment in the everyday context of research. This article focuses on everyday aspects of research ethics for studies involving autistic participants. It draws on a review of the literature and a process of ethical deliberation involving a task force of researchers, professionals, autistic self-advocates, and parents. These methods led to the creation of suggestions for researchers. This article describes the community engagement process, briefly presents the task force suggestions, and provides more detailed discussion of select items for illustration. Suggestions are organized around five “person-oriented research ethics” guideposts: (1) individualization (e.g. providing individualized support for participants), (2) acknowledgment of lived world (e.g. acknowledging barriers to care that impact research ethics), (3) empowerment in decision-making (e.g. creating accessible consent processes that address specific communication needs), (4) respect for holistic personhood (e.g. addressing sensory and processing needs and strengths), and (5) focus on researcher–participant relationships (e.g. involving autistic people in ways other than research participants, including but not limited to via participatory research). This project highlights the value of researcher–community partnerships in discussions about research ethics. Lay abstract Research ethics means issues that concern the welfare and wellbeing of people who take part in research. It is important in all scientific studies. Ethics helps people who do research treat people who take part in research fairly and with respect. This article is about day-to-day ethics when autistic people take part in research. We present tips for researchers who want to do this type of study. We used two methods to create these tips. First, we wanted to know what other people said about this topic. We used a literature review to find out. Second, we wanted to know what autistic people, parents, and professionals thought, and had a working group meet to discuss it. The working group provided advice that researchers could consider around day-to-day ethics in research. This article talks about these methods and advice. The advice fits into five big groups: Tailor the research process for the unique needs of each person. Think about the world in which people who take part in research live. Make it easier for people to make their own choices. Value what people who take part in research have to share and consider their needs and strengths. Think about how researchers and people who take part in research work together. This project shows why it is useful for researchers and communities to talk about research ethics together.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ariel Cascio
- Central Michigan University, USA
- Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal, Canada
- McGill University, Canada
| | | | - Eric Racine
- Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal, Canada
- McGill University, Canada
- Université de Montréal, Canada
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Hillman K, Dix K, Ahmed K, Lietz P, Trevitt J, O'Grady E, Uljarević M, Vivanti G, Hedley D. Interventions for anxiety in mainstream school-aged children with autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review. CAMPBELL SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2020; 16:e1086. [PMID: 37131419 PMCID: PMC8356281 DOI: 10.1002/cl2.1086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kylie Hillman
- Australian Council for Educational ResearchCamberwellVictoriaAustralia
| | - Katherine Dix
- Australian Council for Educational ResearchAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - Kashfee Ahmed
- Australian Council for Educational ResearchAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - Petra Lietz
- Australian Council for Educational ResearchAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - Jenny Trevitt
- Australian Council for Educational ResearchCamberwellVictoriaAustralia
| | - Elizabeth O'Grady
- Australian Council for Educational ResearchCamberwellVictoriaAustralia
| | - Mirko Uljarević
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Stanford Autism Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of MedicineStanford UniversityPalo AltoCalifornia
| | - Giacomo Vivanti
- A. J. Drexel Autism InstituteDornsife School of Public Health, Drexel UniversityPhiladelphiaPennsylvania
| | - Darren Hedley
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, College of Science, Health and EngineeringLaTrobe UniversityBundooraVictoriaAustralia
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16
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Wood JJ, Kendall PC, Wood KS, Kerns CM, Seltzer M, Small BJ, Lewin AB, Storch EA. Cognitive Behavioral Treatments for Anxiety in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Psychiatry 2020; 77:474-483. [PMID: 31755906 PMCID: PMC6902190 DOI: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2019.4160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Importance Anxiety is common among youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), often interfering with adaptive functioning. Psychological therapies are commonly used to treat school-aged youth with ASD; their efficacy has not been established. Objective To compare the relative efficacy of 2 cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) programs and treatment as usual (TAU) to assess treatment outcomes on maladaptive and interfering anxiety in children with ASD. The secondary objectives were to assess treatment outcomes on positive response, ASD symptom severity, and anxiety-associated adaptive functioning. Design, Setting, and Participants This randomized clinical trial began recruitment in April 2014 at 3 universities in US cities. A volunteer sample of children (7-13 years) with ASD and maladaptive and interfering anxiety was randomized to standard-of-practice CBT, CBT adapted for ASD, or TAU. Independent evaluators were blinded to groupings. Data were collected through January 2017 and analyzed from December 2018 to February 2019. Interventions The main features of standard-of-practice CBT were affect recognition, reappraisal, modeling/rehearsal, in vivo exposure tasks, and reinforcement. The CBT intervention adapted for ASD was similar but also addressed social communication and self-regulation challenges with perspective-taking training and behavior-analytic techniques. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome measure per a priori hypotheses was the Pediatric Anxiety Rating Scale. Secondary outcomes included treatment response on the Clinical Global Impressions-Improvement scale and checklist measures. Results Of 214 children initially enrolled, 167 were randomized, 145 completed treatment, and 22 discontinued participation. Those who were not randomized failed to meet eligibility criteria (eg, confirmed ASD). There was no significant difference in discontinuation rates across conditions. Randomized children had a mean (SD) age of 9.9 (1.8) years; 34 were female (20.5%). The CBT program adapted for ASD outperformed standard-of-practice CBT (mean [SD] Pediatric Anxiety Rating Scale score, 2.13 [0.91] [95% CI, 1.91-2.36] vs 2.43 [0.70] [95% CI, 2.25-2.62]; P = .04) and TAU (2.93 [0.59] [95% CI, 2.63-3.22]; P < .001). The CBT adapted for ASD also outperformed standard-of-practice CBT and TAU on parent-reported scales of internalizing symptoms (estimated group mean differences: adapted vs standard-of-practice CBT, -0.097 [95% CI, -0.172 to -0.023], P = .01; adapted CBT vs TAU, -0.126 [95% CI, -0.243 to -0.010]; P = .04), ASD-associated social-communication symptoms (estimated group mean difference: adapted vs standard-of-practice CBT, -0.115 [95% CI, -0223 to -0.007]; P = .04; adapted CBT vs TAU: -0.235 [95% CI,-0.406 to -0.065]; P = .01); and anxiety-associated social functioning (estimated group mean difference: adapted vs standard-of-practice CBT, -0.160 [95% CI, -0.307 to -0.013]; P = .04; adapted CBT vs TAU: -0.284 [95% CI, -0.515 to -0.053]; P = .02). Both CBT conditions achieved higher rates of positive treatment response than TAU (BIACA, 61 of 66 [92.4%]; Coping Cat, 47 of 58 [81.0%]; TAU, 2 of 18 [11.1%]; P < .001 for each comparison). Conclusions and Relevance In this study, CBT was efficacious for children with ASD and interfering anxiety, and an adapted CBT approach showed additional advantages. It is recommended that clinicians providing psychological treatments to school-aged children with ASD consider developing CBT expertise. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02028247.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey J. Wood
- Department of Education, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles
| | - Philip C. Kendall
- Department of Psychology, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Karen S. Wood
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles
| | - Connor M. Kerns
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Michael Seltzer
- Department of Education, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles
| | - Brent J. Small
- University of South Florida School of Aging Studies, Tampa
| | - Adam B. Lewin
- Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, University of South Florida, Tampa
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17
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Storch EA, Schneider SC, De Nadai AS, Selles RR, McBride NM, Grebe SC, Bergez KC, Ramirez A, Viana AG, Lewin AB. A Pilot Study of Family-Based Exposure-Focused Treatment for Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Anxiety. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2020; 51:209-219. [PMID: 31493105 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-019-00923-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Anxiety is a common and impairing condition in youth with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Evidence supports the use of cognitive behavioral therapy for treating anxiety in this population; however, available treatment protocols may be difficult to implement outside of research settings. The present study examined the efficacy of family-based exposure-focused treatment (FET) compared to a treatment as usual (TAU) control in 32 youth aged 6-17 years with ASD and co-occurring anxiety. Fourteen youth were randomized to FET, which included 12 face-to-face weekly therapy sessions lasing 45-55 min, while 18 youth completed the TAU control where engagement in psychotherapy or pharmacotherapy was at the discretion of the families. Results strongly supported FET with a 79% (versus 0% in TAU) response rate, 86% (versus 0% in TAU) remission in primary anxiety diagnosis, and large between-group effects on clinician-rated anxiety severity and most parent-rated domains of anxiety-related impairment. Among treatment responders, 2-month follow-up supported maintenance of gains. Overall, the study supported FET as a relatively brief intervention for the treatment of anxiety in youth with ASD, although further research is needed to replicate these findings and compare FET outcomes to more comprehensive interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric A Storch
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza MS:350, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Sophie C Schneider
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza MS:350, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | | | - Robert R Selles
- University of British Columbia and BC Children's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Nicole M McBride
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Stacey C Grebe
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza MS:350, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Katherine C Bergez
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza MS:350, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Ana Ramirez
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza MS:350, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Andres G Viana
- Department of Psychology, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA.,Texas Institute of Measurement, Evaluation, and Statistics, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Adam B Lewin
- Department of Pediatrics, Rothman Center for Neuropsychiatry, University of South Florida, Saint Petersburg, FL, USA
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18
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Hunsche MC, Kerns CM. Update on the effectiveness of psychotherapy for anxiety disorders in children and adolescents with ASD. Bull Menninger Clin 2019; 83:326-352. [DOI: 10.1521/bumc.2019.83.3.326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
A growing body of research has examined the efficacy of varying formats (individual, group, linear, modular) of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) as a treatment for anxiety disorders in children and youth with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The present review utilized Chambless and Hollon's (1998) criteria for efficacious treatments to: (1) critically review the current evidence base for the efficacy of CBT for anxiety disorders in ASD; and (2) provide recommendations for future research. Findings identify two probably efficacious CBT programs (one group and one individual program) and five possibly efficacious programs, but no well-established programs. Similarities and differences in the components of these programs, which range from unmodified to specifically developed for ASD populations, are highlighted. In addition, the steps required to demonstrate well-established efficacy, and ultimately effectiveness, are discussed alongside other recommendations for refined future research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Connor M. Kerns
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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19
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Wise JM, Cepeda SL, Ordaz DL, McBride NM, Cavitt MA, Howie FR, Scalli L, Ehrenreich-May J, Wood JJ, Lewin AB, Storch EA. Open Trial of Modular Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy in the Treatment of Anxiety Among Late Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2019; 50:27-34. [PMID: 29855820 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-018-0817-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Given the high rates of comorbid anxiety and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the adolescent and young adult population, effective treatment protocols to address anxiety symptoms are of importance to help promote greater independence across settings. While research supports the use of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) across younger age groups with ASD, the literature is limited on interventions benefitting adolescents and young adults with comorbid anxiety disorders and ASD. Therefore, this open trial utilized a modified CBT manual for seven participants between the ages of 16 and 20 years, consisting of a 16-week modularized CBT treatment, including psychoeducation, cognitive therapy, and exposure therapy. Measures of anxiety and depression were completed at baseline and post-treatment. Findings demonstrated significant reductions on clinician-rated measures of anxiety. While findings are encouraging, additional studies examining the efficacy of CBT for this population with ASD and clinical anxiety are necessary to further identify beneficial treatment components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian M Wise
- Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, St. Petersburg, FL, USA
| | - Sandra L Cepeda
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, 1977 Butler Blvd., Suite 400, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | | | - Nicole M McBride
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Arkansas, USA
| | - Mark A Cavitt
- Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, St. Petersburg, FL, USA
| | - Flora R Howie
- Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Leanne Scalli
- Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, St. Petersburg, FL, USA
| | | | - Jeffrey J Wood
- Departments of Education and Psychiatry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Eric A Storch
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, 1977 Butler Blvd., Suite 400, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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20
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Weiss JA, Thomson K, Burnham Riosa P, Albaum C, Chan V, Maughan A, Tablon P, Black K. A randomized waitlist-controlled trial of cognitive behavior therapy to improve emotion regulation in children with autism. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2018; 59:1180-1191. [PMID: 29687457 PMCID: PMC6220772 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.12915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mental health problems are common among individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and difficulties with emotion regulation processes may underlie these issues. Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is considered an efficacious treatment for anxiety in children with ASD. Additional research is needed to examine the efficacy of a transdiagnostic treatment approach, whereby the same treatment can be applied to multiple emotional problems, beyond solely anxiety. The purpose of the present study was to examine the efficacy of a manualized and individually delivered 10-session, transdiagnostic CBT intervention, aimed at improving emotion regulation and mental health difficulties in children with ASD. METHODS Sixty-eight children (M age = 9.75, SD = 1.27) and their parents participated in the study, randomly allocated to either a treatment immediate (n = 35) or waitlist control condition (n = 33) (ISRCTN #67079741). Parent-, child-, and clinician-reported measures of emotion regulation and mental health were administered at baseline, postintervention/postwaitlist, and at 10-week follow-up. RESULTS Children in the treatment immediate condition demonstrated significant improvements on measures of emotion regulation (i.e., emotionality, emotion regulation abilities with social skills) and aspects of psychopathology (i.e., a composite measure of internalizing and externalizing symptoms, adaptive behaviors) compared to those in the waitlist control condition. Treatment gains were maintained at follow-up. CONCLUSIONS This study is the first transdiagnostic CBT efficacy trial for children with ASD. Additional investigations are needed to further establish its relative efficacy compared to more traditional models of CBT for children with ASD and other neurodevelopmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kendra Thomson
- Department of Applied Disability StudiesBrock UniversitySt. CatharinesONCanada
| | | | - Carly Albaum
- Department of PsychologyYork UniversityTorontoONCanada
| | - Victoria Chan
- Department of PsychologyYork UniversityTorontoONCanada
| | | | - Paula Tablon
- Department of PsychologyYork UniversityTorontoONCanada
| | - Karen Black
- Department of PsychologyYork UniversityTorontoONCanada
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McGuinty EF, Bird BM, Nelson J, McGuinty JL, Cashin A. Novel four-session treatment intervention for anxiety and high-functioning autism: A single case report for Externalizing Metaphors Therapy. JOURNAL OF CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRIC NURSING 2018; 31:87-96. [PMID: 30317688 DOI: 10.1111/jcap.12213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 08/21/2018] [Accepted: 09/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
TOPIC The Brief Services psychotherapy paradigm has evolved to produce cost-effective and clinically significant outcomes in children's mental health. Though its clinical evaluation is still in its infancy, it has been utilized to a much lesser degree with autism spectrum disorders, which typically require a longer-term approach to psychotherapy treatment. PURPOSE The current paper introduces a novel, four-session intervention that aims to decrease anxiety experienced by clients presenting with high-functioning autism. Externalizing Metaphors Therapy is based upon the externalization of problems, transformation of metaphoric imagery, shifting of maladaptive emotional schemas, and the generalization of problems. A case study is utilized to visually aid in the understanding of this new treatment intervention. SOURCE A composite literature review was conducted with regards to significant works in Narrative Therapy, treatment interventions for anxiety and high functioning autism, evidence-based treatments for anxiety, and practice based approaches in psychotherapy. Works were selected based on their relevance to the research filed of anxiety and autism. CONCLUSIONS This clinical research challenges the children's mental health field in addressing anxiety and high-functioning autism from a brief framework. Further clinical research is needed to clinically evaluate the current model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Everett F McGuinty
- Faculty of Education, Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brian M Bird
- Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, British Columbia, Canada
| | - John Nelson
- Private Practice, North Bay, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Andrew Cashin
- School of Health and Human Sciences, Southern Cross University, Lismore, New South Wales, Australia
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La Buissonnière-Ariza V, Wood JJ, Kendall PC, McBride NM, Cepeda SL, Small BJ, Lewin AB, Kerns C, Storch EA. Presentation and Correlates of Hoarding Behaviors in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Comorbid Anxiety or Obsessive-Compulsive Symptoms. J Autism Dev Disord 2018; 48:4167-4178. [PMID: 29974314 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-018-3645-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the presentation and correlates of hoarding behaviors in 204 children aged 7-13 with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and comorbid anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms. Approximately 34% of the sample presented at least moderate levels, and with 7% presenting severe to extreme levels of hoarding. Child gender predicted hoarding severity. In addition, child ASD-related social difficulties together with attention-deficit and hyperactivity disorder symptom severity positively predicted hoarding controlling for child gender and restricted and repetitive behaviors. Finally, child anxiety/OCD symptoms positively predicted hoarding, controlling for all other factors. These results suggest hoarding behaviors may constitute a common feature of pediatric ASD with comorbid anxiety/OCD, particularly in girls and children with greater social difficulties and comorbid psychiatric symptom severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valérie La Buissonnière-Ariza
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza - BCM350, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Jeffrey J Wood
- Departments of Education and Psychiatry, UCLA, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Philip C Kendall
- Department of Psychology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nicole M McBride
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Sandra L Cepeda
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza - BCM350, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Brent J Small
- School of Aging Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Adam B Lewin
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Connor Kerns
- A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Eric A Storch
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza - BCM350, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine/Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA.
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Ordaz DL, Lewin AB, McBride NM, Storch EA. Modular Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for an Early Adolescent With Autism Spectrum Disorder and Comorbid Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Clin Case Stud 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/1534650118782436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This case report outlines the use of a modular cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) protocol used to treat “Larry,” a 12-year-old male, with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Larry participated in 16 weekly 90-min CBT sessions, following a protocol developed for youth with ASD and anxiety/OCD. Upon completion of the treatment, Larry was remitted of his OCD diagnosis (as defined by a subthreshold score of 3 on the Anxiety Disorders Interview Schedule for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders–4th ed. [ DSM-IV]–parent [ADIS]) and demonstrated marked improvements in his top presenting problems (washing hands immediately after touching something, checking tablet for smudges, and being around litter). This case report indicates useful adaptations to traditional CBT for OCD when working with youth with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adam B. Lewin
- University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
- Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, St. Petersburg, FL, USA
| | - Nicole M. McBride
- Division of Child and Adolescent, PsychiatryUniversity of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rocks, AR, USA
| | - Eric A. Storch
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Recent years have shown an uptick in studies assessing bullying and other adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This article reviews extant findings, and points to gaps in the literature. RECENT FINDINGS Children with ASD are bullied by peers at a rate three to four times that of nondisabled peers with negative impacts on academic functioning and mental health symptoms, including increased risk for suicidality. Children with ASD are also at enhanced risk for other ACES, particularly parental divorce and income insufficiency, and as observed in the general population, children with ASD who experience an increased number of ACES are at elevated risk for comorbid psychiatric and medical health problems. Children with ASD with an elevated number of ACES also experience a delay in ASD diagnosis and treatment initiation. There is no evidence of increased risk of child maltreatment within the ASD population. SUMMARY As bullying and other adverse experiences are common and associated with deleterious outcomes in children with ASD, there is a need for additional research on intervention strategies to prevent and mitigate the impact of these experiences. Ongoing work on the assessment of trauma experiences and PTSD symptoms in children on the spectrum is also needed.
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Keefer A, White SW, Vasa RA, Reaven J. Psychosocial interventions for internalizing disorders in youth and adults with ASD. Int Rev Psychiatry 2018. [PMID: 29537895 DOI: 10.1080/09540261.2018.1432575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Internalizing disorders are common in individuals with ASD. Psychosocial interventions targeting these disorders in the ASD population have burgeoned in the last decade. Cognitive-behavioural therapy, modified for ASD, is the most frequently investigated model, although other interventions, including behaviour therapy, third-wave interventions, models targeting transdiagnostic constructs, and alternative interventions and treatment delivery methods are now emerging. This review provides a summary of the efficacy of these interventions in treating internalizing disorders in youth and adults with ASD. The barriers to accessing these treatments, which are experienced by many individuals with ASD and their families, as well as future research directions, are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Keefer
- a Center for Autism and Related Disorders , Kennedy Krieger Institute , Baltimore , MD , USA.,b Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences , Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Susan W White
- c Department of Psychology , Virginia Tech , Blacksburg , VA , USA
| | - Roma A Vasa
- a Center for Autism and Related Disorders , Kennedy Krieger Institute , Baltimore , MD , USA.,b Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences , Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Judy Reaven
- d Department of Psychiatry , University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus , Aurora , CO , USA
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Ahlers KP, Gabrielsen TP, Lewis D, Brady AM, Litchford A. Supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorder in understanding and coping with complex social emotional issues. SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGY INTERNATIONAL 2017. [DOI: 10.1177/0143034317719942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Core deficits in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) center around social communication and behavior. For those with ASD, these deficits complicate the task of learning how to cope with and manage complex social emotional issues. Although individuals with ASD may receive sufficient academic and basic behavioral support in school settings, supports for dealing with complex social emotional issues are more difficult to access, even though these issues significantly impact student learning. When addressing these challenging social- and emotional-based issues, school and professional personnel need more specific instructional skill sets and resources to effectively and compassionately support students with ASD. In this article, we address three challenging areas of social emotional development that are commonly experienced by individuals with ASD: Anxiety, social isolation, and grief. We briefly explore the existing research on these three topics, identify evidence-based practices and learning strategies to support social emotional learning in individuals with ASD, and include descriptive lists of practical resources that address anxiety, social isolation, and grief.
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Burkhart K, Knox M, Hunter K. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy in the Treatment of Internalizing Disorders in High-Functioning Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder. JOURNAL OF CONTEMPORARY PSYCHOTHERAPY 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s10879-017-9374-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review aims to synthesize the most recent research on anxiety disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and discuss the relationship between these conditions and challenges for assessment. Furthermore, implications for treatment and future directions are discussed. RECENT FINDINGS Research suggests that anxiety disorders and OCD are highly prevalent in individuals with ASD. However, the significant overlap of ASD features with anxiety and OCD symptomology makes differential diagnosis of these disorders particularly challenging. Though several treatments for anxiety have been adapted for youth with ASD (e.g., cognitive behavior therapy), pharmacological treatments and treatments for adults are still marked undeveloped. Despite the high prevalence of anxiety disorders and OCD in ASD and some recent advances in assessment and treatment, research is needed to clarify the multifaceted relationship of these conditions and develop tailored assessment and treatment approaches appropriate for a full range of individuals with ASD.
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Souders MC, Zavodny S, Eriksen W, Sinko R, Connell J, Kerns C, Schaaf R, Pinto-Martin J. Sleep in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2017; 19:34. [PMID: 28502070 PMCID: PMC5846201 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-017-0782-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The purposes of this paper are to provide an overview of the state of the science of sleep in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), present hypotheses for the high prevalence of insomnia in children with ASD, and present a practice pathway for promoting optimal sleep. Approximately two thirds of children with ASD have chronic insomnia, and to date, the strongest evidence on promoting sleep is for sleep education, environmental changes, behavioral interventions, and exogenous melatonin. The Sleep Committee of the Autism Treatment Network (ATN) developed a practice pathway, based on expert consensus, to capture best practices for screening, identification, and treatment for sleep problems in ASD in 2012. An exemplar case is presented to integrate key constructs of the practice pathway and address arousal and sensory dysregulation in a child with ASD and anxiety disorder. This paper concludes with next steps for dissemination of the practice pathway and future directions for research of sleep problems in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret C Souders
- University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, 418 Curie Blvd, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
| | - Stefanie Zavodny
- University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, 418 Curie Blvd, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Whitney Eriksen
- University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, 418 Curie Blvd, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Rebecca Sinko
- Thomas Jefferson University, 130 S. 9th St, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - James Connell
- AJ Drexel Autism Institute, 3020 Market St #560, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Connor Kerns
- AJ Drexel Autism Institute, 3020 Market St #560, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Roseann Schaaf
- Thomas Jefferson University, 130 S. 9th St, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Jennifer Pinto-Martin
- University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, 418 Curie Blvd, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
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Kerns CM, Renno P, Kendall PC, Wood JJ, Storch EA. Anxiety Disorders Interview Schedule-Autism Addendum: Reliability and Validity in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL FOR THE SOCIETY OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY, AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION, DIVISION 53 2017; 46:88-100. [PMID: 27925775 PMCID: PMC5441235 DOI: 10.1080/15374416.2016.1233501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Assessing anxiety in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is inherently challenging due to overlapping (e.g., social avoidance) and ambiguous symptoms (e.g., fears of change). An ASD addendum to the Anxiety Disorders Interview Schedule-Child/Parent, Parent Version (ADIS/ASA) was developed to provide a systematic approach for differentiating traditional anxiety disorders from symptoms of ASD and more ambiguous, ASD-related anxiety symptoms. Interrater reliability and convergent and discriminant validity were examined in a sample of 69 youth with ASD (8-13 years, 75% male, IQ = 68-143) seeking treatment for anxiety. The parents of participants completed the ADIS/ASA and a battery of behavioral measures. A second rater independently observed and scored recordings of the original interviews. Findings suggest reliable measurement of comorbid (intraclass correlation = 0.85-0.98, κ = 0.67-0.91) as well as ambiguous anxiety-like symptoms (intraclass correlation = 0.87-95, κ = 0.77-0.90) in children with ASD. Convergent and discriminant validity were supported for the traditional anxiety symptoms on the ADIS/ASA, whereas convergent and discriminant validity were partially supported for the ambiguous anxiety-like symptoms. Results provide evidence for the reliability and validity of the ADIS/ASA as a measure of traditional anxiety categories in youth with ASD, with partial support for the validity of the ambiguous anxiety-like categories. Unlike other measures, the ADIS/ASA differentiates comorbid anxiety disorders from overlapping and ambiguous anxiety-like symptoms in ASD, allowing for more precise measurement and clinical conceptualization. Ambiguous anxiety-like symptoms appear phenomenologically distinct from comorbid anxiety disorders and may reflect either symptoms of ASD or a novel variant of anxiety in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connor Morrow Kerns
- a A. J. Drexel Autism Institute and Community Health & Prevention , Drexel University
| | - Patricia Renno
- b Center for Autism Research and Treatment , University of California Los Angeles
| | | | - Jeffrey J Wood
- b Center for Autism Research and Treatment , University of California Los Angeles
- d Division of Child Psychiatry and Division of Psychological Studies in Education , University of California Los Angeles
| | - Eric A Storch
- e Departments of Pediatrics, Psychiatry & Behavioral Neurosciences, and Psychology , University of South Florida
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