Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Groups Addressing Hostile Attribution Bias Among Adolescents and Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder Traits - Report - MDSpire
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Groups Addressing Hostile Attribution Bias Among Adolescents and Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder Traits
Clinical Report: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Hostile Attribution Bias in ASD
Overview
This pilot study demonstrates that group cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) significantly reduces hostile attribution bias and improves social functioning and quality of life (QOL) in adolescents and young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) traits. Notably, improvements in QOL were observed even with smaller reductions in hostile attribution bias, suggesting distinct pathways for these outcomes.
Background
Hostile attribution bias, the tendency to interpret ambiguous social cues as hostile, is prevalent among adolescents, particularly those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This bias can lead to significant psychological challenges, including anxiety and social withdrawal, impacting overall quality of life. Addressing this bias through effective interventions like group CBT is crucial for enhancing social functioning and mental health in this vulnerable population.
Data Highlights
Outcome
Effect Size (ES)
p-value
Hostile Attribution Bias
0.698
0.017
Social Communication and Interaction
0.780
0.012
Subjective Quality of Life
0.752
0.011
Key Findings
Group CBT significantly improved hostile attribution bias (ES = 0.698, p = 0.017).
Social communication and interaction improved with an effect size of 0.780 (p = 0.012).
Subjective quality of life showed significant improvement (ES = 0.752, p = 0.011).
Smaller reductions in hostile attribution bias were associated with greater increases in subjective QOL (ρ = 0.597, p = 0.019).
The study included 21 participants, with 15 completing the program.
Clinical Implications
The findings suggest that group CBT can be an effective intervention for reducing hostile attribution bias and enhancing social functioning and quality of life in adolescents and young adults with ASD traits. Clinicians should consider implementing structured group CBT programs as part of comprehensive care for this population.
Conclusion
This pilot study indicates that group CBT may effectively address hostile attribution bias while also improving social functioning and quality of life in adolescents and young adults with ASD traits. Further research is warranted to explore the distinct pathways of these improvements.
