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Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders

Gepubliceerd in:

16-03-2019 | Original Paper

Building Skills, Confidence, and Wellness: Psychosocial Effects of Soft Skills Training for Young Adults with Autism

Auteurs: Annemarie Connor, Connie Sung, Alicia Strain, Songtian Zeng, Sarah Fabrizi

Gepubliceerd in: Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders | Uitgave 6/2020

Abstract

Recognizing that social functioning and mental health are linked to social participation and employment outcomes, this pilot study examined the preliminary outcomes of an eight-session, work-related social skills training program designed for young adults with high-functioning autism (HFASD). Results indicate statistically significant improvements in social cognition, social function, and social confidence. Furthermore, participants (n = 26) reported statistically significant reductions in anxiety, and a trend toward lessening depressive symptoms. These results suggest that: (1) social skills training is suitable for individuals with HFASD and clinically-significant levels of anxiety and/or depression, and (2) bolstered social functioning may have broader, cyclical impacts on social confidence, psychological wellness, and social and vocational participation in this population.

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Titel: Building Skills, Confidence, and Wellness: Psychosocial Effects of Soft Skills Training for Young Adults with Autism
Auteurs: Annemarie Connor
Connie Sung
Alicia Strain
Songtian Zeng
Sarah Fabrizi
Publicatiedatum: 16-03-2019
Uitgeverij: Springer US
Gepubliceerd in: Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders / Uitgave 6/2020
Print ISSN: 0162-3257
Elektronisch ISSN: 1573-3432
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-019-03962-w

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