title: Feasibility, Acceptability and Preliminary Treatment Outcomes in a School-Based CBT Intervention Program for Adolescents with ASD and Anxiety in Singapore.
abstract: Adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are at high risk for anxiety difficulties and disorders. Clinic-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective; however, few published school-based CBT programs for youth with ASD exist. In this study, the Facing Your Fears CBT protocol was adapted for delivery and piloted within a school setting by non-clinicians, with culturally appropriate adaptations. 44 13-15 aged youth with ASD from 22 mainstream schools in Singapore participated. Feasibility, acceptability and preliminary treatment outcomes were examined. Decreases in youth and parent reported anxiety symptoms were reported. Staff and parents found the program useful. Stakeholder support was important for implementation. Initial findings reflect the importance of carefully bridging research-to-practice for youth with ASD and anxiety.
authors.affiliation: Autism Research Unit, Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada. Irene.drmic@sickkids.ca.|Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, 150 Kilgour Road, Toronto, ON, M4G 1R8, Canada. Irene.drmic@sickkids.ca.
authors.forename: Irene E
authors.initials: IE
authors.lastname: Drmic
authors.affiliation: Education Services Division, Ministry of Education, 51 Grange Road, Singapore, 249564, Singapore.
authors.forename: Mariam
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Aljunied
authors.affiliation: University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, School of Medicine, Denver, 13121 E., 17th Ave, Mailstop C-234, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA. judy.reaven@ucdenver.edu.
authors.forename: Judy
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Reaven
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D001007:Anxiety / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D000067877:Autism Spectrum Disorder / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D005239:Fear; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008605:Mental Health Services; D010290:Parents / Q000523:psychology; D012572:School Health Services; D012846:Singapore; D016896:Treatment Outcome
keywords: Adolescents; Anxiety; Autism spectrum disorder (ASD); Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT); Facing your fears; Schools