Abstract
The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate whether a modified version of the Coping Cat program could be effective in
reducing anxiety in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Twenty-two children (ages 8–14; IQ ≥ 70) with ASD and clinically
significant anxiety were randomly assigned to 16 sessions of the Coping Cat program (cognitive-behavioral therapy; CBT) or
a 16-week waitlist. Children in the CBT condition evidenced significantly larger reductions in anxiety than those in the waitlist.
Treatment gains were largely maintained at two-month follow-up. Results provide preliminary evidence that a modified version
of the Coping Cat program may be a feasible and effective program for reducing clinically significant levels of anxiety in
children with high-functioning ASD.
reducing anxiety in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Twenty-two children (ages 8–14; IQ ≥ 70) with ASD and clinically
significant anxiety were randomly assigned to 16 sessions of the Coping Cat program (cognitive-behavioral therapy; CBT) or
a 16-week waitlist. Children in the CBT condition evidenced significantly larger reductions in anxiety than those in the waitlist.
Treatment gains were largely maintained at two-month follow-up. Results provide preliminary evidence that a modified version
of the Coping Cat program may be a feasible and effective program for reducing clinically significant levels of anxiety in
children with high-functioning ASD.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Category Original paper
- Pages 1-11
- DOI 10.1007/s10803-012-1541-9
- Authors
- Rebecca H. McNally Keehn, California School of Professional Psychology, Alliant International University, 10455 Pomerado Road, San Diego, CA 92131, USA
- Alan J. Lincoln, California School of Professional Psychology, Alliant International University, 10455 Pomerado Road, San Diego, CA 92131, USA
- Milton Z. Brown, California School of Professional Psychology, Alliant International University, 10455 Pomerado Road, San Diego, CA 92131, USA
- Denise A. Chavira, Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
- Journal Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
- Online ISSN 1573-3432
- Print ISSN 0162-3257