Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Recreational Activity for Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Recreational Activity for Adults With Autism Spectrum Disorders. A Randomized Controlled Trial.

The purpose of this study is to determine if adults with autism spectrum disorder and with normal intelligence improve from 36 sessions (1 calendar year) of group treatment with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy or recreational activity in groups with 6-8 participants.

The purpose of this study was to compare two group interventions for psychiatric patients with Autism spectrum disorder and normal intelligence: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy developed to suit adults with Autism spectrum disorder, and recreational activity, enabling social interaction. The recreational activity intervention served as a low-impact option, easily organised within the community. It is not a placebo; rather it controls for the positive effects that come out of a structured social environment and group setting. The investigators hypothesized that both interventions would lead to improvement in quality of life, well-being and relief in psychiatric symptoms, with a greater effect in the Cognitive Behavioural Therapy intervention compared to recreational activity. A cumulative follow-up was made, within 5 1/2 years after the start of the treatments. Additional questions adapted to the patient group were added at this 5 1/2 year time point.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Clinical diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders
• Normal intelligence as assumed by mainstream schooling
• Acceptance of a group setting
• Being able to transport themselves to the clinic (with or without support)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Current substance abuse
• Current psychosis