The impact of a group-based acceptance and commitment therapy intervention on parents of children diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder

摘要: Parents of children diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder face significant stressors and challenges; however, little research has investigated ways to effectively address their psychological distress adjustment issues. This study used a between-subject withinsubject repeated measures design test the effects 8-week Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) or treatment as usual (TAU) group. Treatment completers included 13 mothers in ACT condition 4 TAU. They were assessed three weeks before intervention, one week after, months post-intervention. Limited data for between-group comparison demonstrated only difference on frequency scale Automatic Thoughts Questionnaire (ATQ), which automatic thoughts increased TAU condition. For only, ANOVAs revealed decreases from baseline post-intervention Parental Distress Index Stress Index-Short Form. Baseline seen GSI Brief Symptom Inventory-18 (BSI-18), some regression at follow-up but overall reductions maintained. Similar findings also increases Positive Aspects Caregiving ATQ total score believability scale. No statistically changes Depression BSI-18, Action II, Five Facets Mindfulness Questionnaire. In exploratory analysis, experiential avoidance correlated positively multiple scales selfadministered measure executive functioning, including one’s ability shift attention rapidly. Additionally, who reported significantly greater levels externalizing problem behaviors higher degrees parental distress.