Cognitive behaviour therapy and Asperger's disorder : does treatment influence social anxiety and theory of mind?

Anxiety impacts the quality of life and future success of adolescents with Asperger's Disorder.This study was aimed at understanding the impact of a Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) intervention in reducing anxiety while increasing Theory of Mind (ToM) skills in adolescents with Asperger's Disorder.Three male participants, aged 13 to 16, took part in counselling sessions.The intervention consisted of eight, one-hour, individualized sessions that focused on cognitive and behavioural strategies, ToM teaching, and social skill instruction.Results showed multiple trends in anxiety reduction, with significant decreases in both panic disorder as noted in participants' self-reports and in generalized anxiety as noted in parents' reports of their children's anxiety.Data demonstrated changes in anxiety, which varied according to the participant's motivation to change, participation in sessions, and application of strategies outside the counselling sessions.Data from the ToM measures was insufficient to determine if ToM change occurred.Results indicated preliminary support for the CBT intervention in decreasing anxiety in adolescents with Asperger's Disorder.v