Cognitive Behavioral Interventions for Reducing Anxiety in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: The Quality of the Evidence Base

• In Event: Social-Cognitive Aspects of Autism

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the quality of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapies/Interventions (CBTs) for anxiety in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A total of twenty-three studies were included and coded to evaluate the quality indicators of CBTs studies according to the guidelines adopted from the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) Standards for Evidence-Based Practices in Special Education. The eight categories of each study with a total of 24 components were evaluated. However, results yielded a moderate (g= 0.66) effect size for reducing levels of anxiety. Most of the studies (n = 18) missed at least one of the essential indicators. Moreover, 61% of studies (n= 14) lacked to assess implementation fidelity. Implications for children with ASD are discussed.

Authors

• Celal Perihan, Idaho State University

• Mack D. Burke, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Ali BICER, University of Wyoming