We can still feel good: evaluation of the I can feel good programme second edition in a low secure unit

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Sarah Ashworth ◽  
Charlotte Robinson ◽  
Donna Harrison ◽  
Natalie Brotherton
Keyword(s):  
Statistical Significance ◽  
Autism Spectrum ◽  
Primary Diagnosis ◽  
Skills Acquisition ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Signed Rank ◽  
Programme Development ◽  
Spectrum Disorders ◽  
Development Evaluation ◽  
People Skills

Purpose This paper aims to present the process of reviewing, adapting and evaluating, the second edition of the I Can Feel Good programme (Ashworth et al., 2018) and adapted DBT programme facilitated at a low-security psychiatric hospital for men with intellectual disability. Through the presentation of programme development, evaluation and revision, a more thorough and transparent understanding of the process involved can be disseminated. Design/methodology/approach The programme lasted approximately 14 months and covered all four modules. N = 5, all-male, ages ranged between 23 and 57 years old. All detained under the MHA (1983) with a primary diagnosis of Mild ID with comorbid psychiatric diagnoses including mental illness, autism spectrum disorders and personality disorder. To evaluate routine effectiveness a pre-post comparison within groups design was used. A standardised GAS approach provided a template to score the degree to which identified goals were achieved over the intervention for participants. Findings Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used due to data not meeting parametric assumptions regarding normal distribution. Except for the mindfulness module, all modules saw pre to post programme psychometric results in the desired direction, evidencing skills acquisition. Coping in crisis and managing feelings modules outcomes neared statistical significance, with the module of people skills demonstrating statistical significance (p < 0.05). Originality/value Upon examination of the results, it appears as though the second edition pilot programme, displayed initially promising results. The clinical and statistical aspects of the programme are explored, in the hope that clinicians may consider the programme’s application and utility within various clinical contexts, in addition to gaining insight into the process of programme development and refinement.

Comparing psychopathology rates across autism spectrum disorders and intellectual disabilities

2018 ◽  
Vol 12 (5/6) ◽  
pp. 163-172 ◽  
Author(s):  
Martyn Matthews ◽  
Elliot Bell ◽  
Brigit Mirfin-Veitch
Keyword(s):  
Autism Spectrum ◽  
Case Review ◽  
Community Based ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Adults With Learning Disabilities ◽  
Review Protocol ◽  
Spectrum Disorders ◽  
Adults With Asd ◽  
Anxiety Depression ◽  
The Relationship

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to compare the rates and patterns of comorbid anxiety, depression and ADHD across people with: autism spectrum disorder (ASD) plus intellectual disability (ID), ASD/no ID (AS/HFA) and ID only. Design/methodology/approach Data were obtained using structured file review and two psychometric screening instruments. File reviews used a modified version of the Case Review Protocol from the Diagnostic Criteria for Psychiatric Disorders for Use with Adults with Learning Disabilities. Screening employed the Reiss Screen for Maladaptive Behaviour and the ASD-Comorbidity-Adults scale. Findings Levels of anxiety, depression and ADHD were high for all three groups, and greater than in general population studies. Between groups, the AS/HFA sample had significantly higher anxiety, while the ASD/ID group had significantly greater ADHD. Groups did not differ on measures of depression or total psychopathology. Levels of ADHD, but not anxiety or depression, increased with severity of ID and ASD symptoms. Research limitations/implications More research is needed on the relationship between ASD and both anxiety and ADHD, particularly the identification of these comorbid conditions and their treatment. Practical implications Rigorous screening for comorbid mental health conditions is required to achieve the best outcomes for adults with ASD. Originality/value The study used a broader community-based sample than previous comorbidity research. Including adults with ID but without ASD enabled a comparison of types and rates of disorder across three distinct but related groups with neurodevelopmental disorders.

Residential placement and quality of life for adults with severe autism spectrum disorders and severe-to-profound intellectual disabilities

2017 ◽  
Vol 3 (4) ◽  
pp. 187-205
Author(s):  
Giuliana Galli Carminati ◽  
Federico Carminati ◽  
Rachel Lehotkay ◽  
Erica Nora Lorincz ◽  
Viviane Subirade-Jacopit ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Life ◽  
Autism Spectrum Disorders ◽  
Living Arrangements ◽  
Rating Scale ◽  
Autism Spectrum ◽  
Aberrant Behavior ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Severe Intellectual Disability ◽  
Spectrum Disorders

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the relationship between some main characteristics of different living arrangements and the quality of life (QoL) of their users with severe intellectual disability and low-functioning autism spectrum disorders. Design/methodology/approach Study participants were assessed for ASD severity through the Childhood Autism Rating Scale or the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales (VABS): for behavioral problems with the aberrant behavior checklist (ABC); for perception of efficacy and satisfaction with care, through an adapted Visual Analogue Scale; and for QoL with the QoL inventory in residential environments (validated in French as Inventaire de la Qualité de Vie en Milieu Résidentiel). Because the goal was to define a “residential profile (RP),” the authors evaluated each participating residence with the Working Methods Scale and the questionnaire on residential parameters. Findings The RP allowed for the classification of the residences into three clusters. The authors found no clear relationship between QoL and the RP clusters, but the authors found the RP clusters to be significantly correlated with ABC factors F1 (irritability, agitation, crying) and F2 (lethargy, social withdrawal), and VABS scores for living, socialization, and motor skills. Originality/value RPs were more strongly correlated with ABC items and the ability to cope with everyday life than with QoL. The authors hypothesize that RP is correlated with both aberrant behavior and the autonomy of residents and that QoL remains relatively stable. Therefore, RP is correlated with the status of the residents; however, this appears not to be correlated with their QoL.

scholarly journals Defendants with autism spectrum disorders: what is the role of court liaison and diversion?

2017 ◽  
Vol 3 (4) ◽  
pp. 220-228 ◽  
Author(s):  
Eddie Chaplin ◽  
Jane McCarthy ◽  
Andrew Forrester
Keyword(s):  
Autism Spectrum Disorders ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Current Practice ◽  
Autism Spectrum ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Lower Courts ◽  
Spectrum Disorders ◽  
Court Liaison ◽  
Individual Human

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine the role of liaison and diversion services working in the lower courts (also known as Magistrates’ courts) with regard to autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and their assessment, in particular, the role of pre-sentence and psychiatric reports and interviews. Design/methodology/approach Current practice is described in the lower courts in the context of current legislation and procedures. Findings When writing reports, there is a need for expertise to offer an opinion on future risk, disposal and what needs to be in place to support people with ASDs. No assumptions should be made when reporting on the basis of an ASD diagnosis alone and each case must be assessed on its individual merits while ensuring that individual human rights are protected. Originality/value There is currently a sparse literature examining ASD in court settings. This paper seeks to clarify the current practice.

Difficulties in employment perceived by individuals with ASD in Poland

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Agnieszka Siedler ◽  
Edyta Idczak-Paceś
Keyword(s):  
Public Awareness ◽  
High Stress ◽  
Study Participant ◽  
Autism Spectrum ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Spectrum Disorders ◽  
Reliable Knowledge ◽  
Information Anxiety ◽  
Study Participants ◽  
Depth Interviews

Purpose Individuals with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis often desire to be useful to society and may have the ability to work. Unfortunately, in Poland as in other countries, most remain unemployed. The purpose of this paper is to determine the factors that make gaining and retaining employment difficult for people with autism from their perspective. Design/methodology/approach This paper presents a qualitative research synthesis, that explored experiences of 15 individuals with autism regarding the process of seeking and maintaining employment. In-depth interviews were conducted with each study participant, and four discussion panels were held with small groups. Findings The difficulties described by the study participants included lack of detailed information, anxiety, high stress levels and overcommitment. Some of them also reported that they were unable to find out the reasons for misunderstanding or dissatisfaction on the part of their employers. Social implications The paper emphasizes the need to increase public awareness and reliable knowledge about autism spectrum disorders. Originality/value The paper draws conclusions regarding common difficulties from the perspective of individuals with autism. It shows how features associated with autism can be related to specific problems at work or during the process of looking for it. It also indicates changes that should be made in the employers' approach to help people with autism gain and retain employment.

Staff awareness training: improving knowledge and confidence of autism spectrum disorders and intellectual disabilities in a locked rehabilitation unit

2018 ◽  
Vol 4 (3) ◽  
pp. 95-108 ◽  
Author(s):  
Victoria Anne Hatton
Keyword(s):  
Autism Spectrum Disorders ◽  
Intellectual Disabilities ◽  
Developmental Disorders ◽  
Autism Spectrum ◽  
Adult Males ◽  
Rehabilitation Unit ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Staff Members ◽  
Spectrum Disorders

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to present a training package which was delivered to improve staff members’ knowledge and confidence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and intellectual disabilities (ID). Design/methodology/approach The training was facilitated in a locked rehabilitation unit for adult males, many of whom had diagnoses of ASD and/or ID. With all staff receiving an invite, 25 attended which was the majority of the staff team. This included staff from housekeeping, nursing and catering. Findings To evaluate the effectiveness of the training, a survey and short assessment was administered before and after training. This revealed an improvement in both perceived knowledge and confidence of ASD and ID, as well as actual knowledge. Follow-up interviews also revealed some evidence of sustained learning and practice changes. Research limitations/implications Based on these findings, it is recommended that further face-to-face training is delivered at this locked rehabilitation unit to further improve professional practice. Originality/value This paper provides value to other inpatient settings as it highlights to practitioners how face-to-face training can significantly improve staff members knowledge and confidence of developmental disorders.

The diagnostic boundary between autism spectrum disorder, intellectual developmental disorder and schizophrenia spectrum disorders

2015 ◽  
Vol 9 (5) ◽  
pp. 243-264 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marco O. Bertelli ◽  
Micaela Piva Merli ◽  
Elspeth Bradley ◽  
Roberto Keller ◽  
Niccolò Varrucciu ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Autism Spectrum Disorder ◽  
Clinical Practice ◽  
Developmental Disorder ◽  
Clinical Presentation ◽  
Autism Spectrum ◽  
Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Schizophrenia Spectrum ◽  
Spectrum Disorders ◽  
Intellectual Developmental Disorder

Purpose – During the last few years the prevalence of autism and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has increased greatly. A recurring issue is the overlap and boundaries between Intellectual Developmental Disorder (IDD), ASD and Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders (SSD). In clinical practice with people with IDD, the alternative or adjunctive diagnosis of ASD or SSD is particularly challenging. The purpose of this paper is to define the boundaries and overlapping clinical characteristics of IDD, ASD and SSD; highlight the most relevant differences in clinical presentation; and provide a clinical framework within which to recognize the impact of IDD and ASD in the diagnosis of SSD. Design/methodology/approach – A systematic mapping of the international literature was conducted on the basis of the following questions: first, what are considered to be core and overlapping aspects of IDD, ASD and SSD; second, what are the main issues in clinical practice; and third, can key diagnostic flags be identified to assist in differentiating between the three diagnostic categories? Findings – Crucial clinical aspects for the differentiation resulted to be age of onset, interest towards others, main positive symptoms, and anatomical anomalies of the central nervous system. More robust diagnostic criteria and semeiological references are desirable. Originality/value – The present literature mapping provides a comprehensive description of the most relevant differences in the clinical presentation of ASD and SSD in persons with IDD.

scholarly journals The importance of considering trauma in individuals with autism spectrum disorder: considerations and clinical recommendations

2019 ◽  
Vol 22 (1) ◽  
pp. 23-28
Author(s):  
Clare Sarah Allely ◽  
Lino Faccini
Keyword(s):  
Autism Spectrum Disorder ◽  
Autism Spectrum Disorders ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Relevant Literature ◽  
Autism Spectrum ◽  
Spectrum Disorder ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Clinical Recommendations ◽  
Spectrum Disorders ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The area of trauma in autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) is an important area given the substantial rates of abuse endured by these individuals. However, there are issues with the identification of trauma, understanding how it is perceived, and manifested. The paper aims to discuss this issue. Design/methodology/approach The limited research regarding trauma in ASD is reviewed and gaps are identified. Findings The key findings from the relevant literature are discussed. Practical implications Practical suggestions are outlined for more effective identification of trauma in individuals with ASD. Originality/value To date, there has been relatively little research on trauma and ASD. This paper emphasises the urgent need for attention in this area.

Screening tools for autism spectrum disorders

2015 ◽  
Vol 1 (1) ◽  
pp. 12-29 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tanja Sappok ◽  
Manuel Heinrich ◽  
Lisa Underwood
Keyword(s):  
Autism Spectrum Disorder ◽  
Autism Spectrum Disorders ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Autism Spectrum ◽  
Screening Tools ◽  
Assessment Process ◽  
Diagnostic Validity ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Many Instruments ◽  
Spectrum Disorders

Purpose – Diagnosing autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is important over the whole life span. Standardized instruments may support the assessment process. The purpose of this paper is to describe English- and German-screening tools for ASD. Design/methodology/approach – PubMed was used to search for published tools and evidence on their diagnostic validity. Findings – Searches identified 46 screening tools for ASD. Most are designed for children, while only few measures are available for adults, especially those with additional intellectual disabilities. Many instruments are under-researched, although a small number such as the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers and the SCQ have been widely examined in a variety of populations. Originality/value – The study identified and described a number of ASD screeners that can support clinicians or researchers when deciding whether to carry out a more comprehensive ASD assessment.

scholarly journals Lack of Serum Antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi in Children with Autism

2013 ◽  
Vol 20 (7) ◽  
pp. 1092-1093 ◽  
Author(s):  
Peter D. Burbelo ◽  
Susan E. Swedo ◽  
Audrey Thurm ◽  
Ahmad Bayat ◽  
Andrew E. Levin ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Autism Spectrum Disorders ◽  
Lyme Disease ◽  
Borrelia Burgdorferi ◽  
Children With Autism ◽  
Autism Spectrum ◽  
Developmentally Delayed ◽  
Serum Antibodies ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Healthy Control ◽  
Spectrum Disorders

ABSTRACTIt has been proposed thatBorrelia burgdorferiinfection is present in ∼25% of children with autism spectrum disorders. In this study, antibodies againstBorrelia burgdorferiwere assessed in autistic (n= 104), developmentally delayed (n= 24), and healthy control (n= 55) children. No seropositivity againstBorrelia burgdorferiwas detected in the children with and without autism. There was no evidence of an association between Lyme disease and autism.

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