Dialectic Behaviour Therapy (DBT) for People With Autism: A Multiple Baseline Single Case Design

Dialectic Behaviour Therapy (DBT) for People With Autism, Emotion Regulation Difficulties and Self-harm Behaviour: A Multiple Baseline Single Case Design

The goal of this experimental study is to test the effectiveness of Dialectic Behavioural Therapy in patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The aim questions are:

1. What is the effect of DBT on maladaptive emotion regulation strategies and emotional well-being in patients with ASD?
2. Is the use of DBT skills associated with a reduction in maladaptive emotion regulation strategies and an increase of emotional well-being over time?
3. What are the dynamics over time between maladaptive emotion regulation strategies, emotional well-being and sensory overload?

Participants will:

• Follow DBT of 10 months
• Keep a diary on their urge of maladaptive emotion regulation strategies and well-being

Inclusion Criteria:

• DSM-5 diagnosis of ASD
• Sufficient understanding, as demonstrated in conversation with intake therapist;
• Explicit behavioural problems, which, according to patient and therapist, lead to functional problems (like suicidal ideation, auto mutilation, emotional outburst and interpersonal conflicts);
• BMI > 17;
• Commitment to the therapy and shared goals as assessed by intake therapist;

Exclusion Criteria:

• Antisocial behaviour which interrupts the group climate;
• Presence of a trauma-related disorder that is likely to interfere with the ability to engage effectively in DBT or that requires specialized trauma-focused treatment prior to or alongside DBT as assessed by intake team;
• Excessive dependency on substances for which no parallel appropriate policy can be made;
• Diagnosis of psychotic disorder if not stable;
• Diagnosed with bipolar disorder.