Children with high-functioning autism spectrum disorders and co-occurring anxiety symptoms: implications for assessment and treatment.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this article is to provide guidance and recommendations for children with high-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and anxiety, including suggestions for assessment and intervention.


CONCLUSIONS
Children with ASD are at increased risk for developing clinical anxiety symptoms. Anxiety symptoms can impact school performance, peer relationships, and family functioning. Emerging clinical research has demonstrated the potential positive impact of modified cognitive behavioral therapy to reduce anxiety symptoms in children with ASD.


CONCLUSIONS
Modifications necessary to make cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) protocols accessible to children with ASD are presented, along with specific suggestions for evaluating and treating anxiety symptoms.
Reaven
Judith A
JA
University of Colorado Denver, School of Medicine, JFK Partners, Aurora, Colorado, USA. judy.reaven@ucdenver.edu
D001007:Anxiety / Q000150:complications* / Q000451:nursing*; D002648:Child; D002659:Child Development Disorders, Pervasive / Q000150:complications* / Q000451:nursing*; D002675:Child, Preschool; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D012307:Risk Factors