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Oginga FO, Mpofana T. Understanding the role of early life stress and schizophrenia on anxiety and depressive like outcomes: An experimental study. Behav Brain Res 2024; 470:115053. [PMID: 38768688 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2024.115053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adverse experiences due to early life stress (ELS) or parental psychopathology such as schizophrenia (SZ) have a significant implication on individual susceptibility to psychiatric disorders in the future. However, it is not fully understood how ELS affects social-associated behaviors as well as the developing prefrontal cortex (PFC). OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of ELS and ketamine induced schizophrenia like symptoms (KSZ) on anhedonia, social behavior and anxiety-like behavior. METHODS Male and female Sprague-Dawley rat pups were allocated randomly into eight experimental groups, namely control, gestational stress (GS), GS+KSZ, maternal separation (MS), MS+KSZ pups, KSZ parents, KSZ parents and Pups and KSZ pups only. ELS was induced by subjecting the pups to GS and MS, while schizophrenia like symptoms was induced through subcutaneous administration of ketamine. Behavioral assessment included sucrose preference test (SPT) and elevated plus maze (EPM), followed by dopamine testing and analysis of astrocyte density. Statistical analysis involved ANOVA and post hoc Tukey tests, revealing significant group differences and yielding insights into behavioral and neurodevelopmental impacts. RESULTS GS, MS, and KSZ (dams) significantly reduced hedonic response and increased anxiety-like responses (p < 0.05). Notably, the presence of normal parental mental health demonstrated a reversal of the observed decline in Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein-positive astrocytes (GFAP+ astrocytes) (p < 0.05) and a reduction in anxiety levels, implying its potential protective influence on depressive-like symptoms and PFC astrocyte functionality. CONCLUSION The present study provides empirical evidence supporting the hypothesis that exposure to ELS and KSZ on dams have a significant impact on the on development of anxiety and depressive like symptoms in Sprague Dawley rats, while positive parenting has a reversal effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fredrick Otieno Oginga
- Department of Physiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, University of Kwa-Zulu Natal, Durban 4001, South Africa; Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Science, Kabarak University, Nakuru 20157, Kenya.
| | - Thabisile Mpofana
- Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences North West University, Potchefstroom campus, 11 Hoffman St., Potchefstroom 2531, South Africa
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Yang J, Gao Y, Wang W, Wang J, Wang Y, Yuan L. Interventions to address parenting stress among caregivers of children with chronic diseases: An umbrella review. J Clin Nurs 2024; 33:1626-1646. [PMID: 38323676 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.17060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Caregivers of children with chronic diseases suffer from great parenting pressure, which directly affects the treatment and rehabilitation of children, reduces the quality of life of caregivers and damages family functioning. Existing reviews have not systematically summarized and evaluated interventions for parenting stress in caregivers of children with chronic diseases. DATA SOURCES Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, OVID, CNKI, CBM, Wan Fang and Cochrane Library were searched for eligible reviews in November 2021 and October 2022. METHODS Two reviewers independently screened titles and abstracts, reviewed full texts of articles for eligibility, and appraised the quality of reviews using JBI. The quality of the evidence was assessed using GRADE. Findings are reported in accordance with PRISMA checklist. Narrative summaries grouped findings by intervention types. RESULTS Out of 2632 records, we included 21 systematic reviews for a synthesis. Interventions for parenting stress in children with chronic diseases were divided into seven categories. Cognitive behavioural interventions, psychosocial interventions, child behavioural and/or developmental parent interventions and synthesized interventions have shown high-level evidence in reducing parenting stress for caregivers of children with chronic diseases. Furthermore, outcome measures and intervention protocols were highly heterogeneous across interventions. CONCLUSIONS This umbrella review suggest that reducing the parenting stress of caregivers of children with chronic diseases can directly target caregivers' parenting stress through cognitive behavioural interventions/psychosocial interventions and/or provide guidance to parents on the behavioural and developmental problems of children with chronic diseases. A more standardized approach to outcome measures is essential to assess efficacy and compare interventions across studies. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE The findings provide information and evidence for reducing parenting stress among caregivers of children with chronic diseases to guide the development of comprehensive intervention strategies. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION Patient or public contribution does not apply to this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinrong Yang
- School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Preventive Dentistry, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yuqin Gao
- School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Weiren Wang
- School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Junyan Wang
- School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Yanjie Wang
- School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Lulu Yuan
- School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
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Postma A, Ketelaar M, van Nispen Tot Sevenaer J, Downs Z, van Rappard D, Jongmans M, Zinkstok J. Exploring individual parent-to-parent support interventions for parents caring for children with brain-based developmental disabilities: A scoping review. Child Care Health Dev 2024; 50:e13255. [PMID: 38587275 DOI: 10.1111/cch.13255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brain-based developmental disabilities (BBDDs) comprise a large and heterogeneous group of disorders including autism, intellectual disability, cerebral palsy or genetic and neurodevelopmental disorders. Parents caring for a child with BBDD face multiple challenges that cause increased stress and high risk of mental health problems. Peer-based support by fellow parents for a various range of patient groups has shown potential to provide emotional, psychological and practical support. Here, we aim to explore existing literature on individual peer-to-peer support (iP2PS) interventions for parents caring for children with BBDD with a view to (1) explore the impact of iP2PS interventions on parents and (2) identify challenges and facilitators of iP2PS. METHOD An extensive literature search (January 2023) was performed, and a thematic analysis was conducted to synthesize findings. RESULTS Fourteen relevant articles revealed three major themes regarding the impact of iP2PS on parents: (1) emotional and psychological well-being, (2) quality of life and (3) practical issues. Four themes were identified describing challenges and facilitators of iP2PS: (1) benefits and burden of giving support, (2) matching parent-pairs, (3) logistic challenges and solutions and (4) training and supervision of parents providing peer support. CONCLUSIONS This review revealed that iP2PS has a positive impact on the emotional and psychological well-being of parents, as well as the overall quality of life for families caring for a child with a BBDD. Individual P2PS offers peer-parents an opportunity to support others who are facing challenges similar to those they have experienced themselves. However, many questions still need to be addressed regarding benefits of different iP2PS styles, methods of tailoring support to individual needs and necessity of training and supervision for peer support providers. Future research should focus on defining these components and evaluating benefits to establish effective iP2PS that can be provided as standard care practice for parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber Postma
- Department of Psychiatry and Brain Centre, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marjolijn Ketelaar
- Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy and Sports; Brain Centre, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- De Hoogstraat, Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Zahra Downs
- Department of Psychiatry and Brain Centre, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Diane van Rappard
- Department of Psychiatry and Brain Centre, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marian Jongmans
- Department of Pedagogical and Educational Sciences, Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Neonatology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Janneke Zinkstok
- Department of Psychiatry and Brain Centre, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Karakter Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Ding N, Fu L, Qian L, Sun B, Li C, Gao H, Lei T, Ke X. The correlation between brain structure characteristics and emotion regulation ability in children at high risk of autism spectrum disorder. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024:10.1007/s00787-024-02369-y. [PMID: 38402375 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-024-02369-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
As indicated by longitudinal observation, autism has difficulty controlling emotions to a certain extent in early childhood, and most children's emotional and behavioral problems are further aggravated with the growth of age. This study aimed at exploring the correlation between white matter and white matter fiber bundle connectivity characteristics and their emotional regulation ability in children with autism using machine learning methods, which can lay an empirical basis for early clinical intervention of autism. Fifty-five high risk of autism spectrum disorder (HR-ASD) children and 52 typical development (TD) children were selected to complete the skull 3D-T1 structure and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). The emotional regulation ability of the two groups was compared using the still-face paradigm (SFP). The classification and regression models of white matter characteristics and white matter fiber bundle connections of emotion regulation ability in the HR-ASD group were built based on the machine learning method. The volume of the right amygdala (R2 = 0.245) and the volume of the right hippocampus (R2 = 0.197) affected constructive emotion regulation strategies. FA (R2 = 0.32) and MD (R2 = 0.34) had the predictive effect on self-stimulating behaviour. White matter fiber bundle connection predicted constructive regulation strategies (positive edging R2 = 0.333, negative edging R2 = 0.334) and mother-seeking behaviors (positive edging R2 = 0.667, negative edging R2 = 0.363). The emotional regulation ability of HR-ASD children is significantly correlated with the connections of multiple white matter fiber bundles, which is a potential neuro-biomarker of emotional regulation ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Ding
- Child Mental Health Research Center, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
- Qingdao Women and Children' s Hospital, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266011, China
| | - Linyan Fu
- Child Mental Health Research Center, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Lu Qian
- Child Mental Health Research Center, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Bei Sun
- Child Mental Health Research Center, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Chunyan Li
- Child Mental Health Research Center, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Huiyun Gao
- Child Mental Health Research Center, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Tianyu Lei
- Child Mental Health Research Center, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Xiaoyan Ke
- Child Mental Health Research Center, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China.
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May T, Williams K. Mother and child mental health over time in children with Autism and/or ADHD in the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. Dev Psychopathol 2024; 36:170-180. [PMID: 36345845 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579422001067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
This study utilised a longitudinal population-based study to explore mother and child mental health trajectories over time from child age 0 to 14 years, between children with ASD, ADHD, or ASD + ADHD. It explored whether a bidirectional relationship between mother psychological distress and child emotional and behavioural problems (EBPs) existed. The birth cohort from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children was used. Child EBPs were assessed using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire; and mother emotional distress using the Kessler K6. Generalised estimating equations and structured equation modelling was used to understand changes over time, differences between groups and bidirectional relationships. As expected, children with ASD, ADHD or ASD + ADHD had higher EBPs than children without, and their mothers had higher levels of psychological distress across most time points, but with differing trajectories. Mothers of children with ASD (with or without ADHD) showed increasing psychological distress over time, while mothers of children with ADHD had reducing distress. The bidirectional relationship between mother and child mental health found in children without diagnoses was only partially present in children with ASD/ADHD. Findings highlight support needs and discuss implications for transactional models of parent/child emotional problems in children with neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara May
- School of Psychology, Charles Sturt University, Bathurst, NSW, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Katrina Williams
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Melbourne University, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Developmental Paediatrics, Monash Children's Hospital, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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Bennett T, Drmic I, Gross J, Jambon M, Kimber M, Zaidman-Zait A, Andrews K, Frei J, Duku E, Georgiades S, Gonzalez A, Janus M, Lipman E, Pires P, Prime H, Roncadin C, Salt M, Shine R. The Family-Check-Up® Autism Implementation Research (FAIR) Study: protocol for a study evaluating the effectiveness and implementation of a family-centered intervention within a Canadian autism service setting. Front Public Health 2024; 11:1309154. [PMID: 38292388 PMCID: PMC10826514 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1309154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Prevalence rates of emotional and behavior problems (EBP) in autistic children and youth are high (40-70%), and often cause severe and chronic impairment. Furthermore, autistic children are also more likely to experience family "social-ecological" adversity compared to neurotypically developing peers, including social isolation, child maltreatment, caregiver mental illness, and socioeconomic risk. These family stressors increase the risk of co-occurring EBP among autistic children and can often impede access to evidence-based care, thus amplifying long-term health inequities for autistic children and their caregivers. In the current autism services landscape, there are few scalable, evidence-based programs that adequately address these needs. The Family Check-Up (FCU®) is a brief, strength-based, and tailored family-centered intervention that supports positive parenting and explicitly assesses the social determinants of child and family mental health within an ecological framework. Studies have demonstrated long-term positive child and caregiver outcomes in other populations, but the FCU® has not been evaluated in families of autistic children and youth. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate FCU® implementation within an established, publicly funded Autism Program in Ontario, Canada, with delivery by autism therapists, to demonstrate sustainable effectiveness within real-world settings. Methods In this study, we outline the protocol for a hybrid implementation-effectiveness approach with two key components: (1) A parallel-arm randomized controlled trial of N = 80 autistic children/youth (ages 6-17 years) and high levels of EBP and their caregivers. Primary and secondary outcomes include child EBP, and caregiver well-being and parenting. (2) A mixed methods implementation study, to describe facilitators and barriers to implementation of the FCU® within an autism service setting. Discussion Scalable, ecologically focused family-centered interventions offer promise as key components of a public health framework aimed at reducing mental health inequities among autistic children, youth, and their caregivers. Results of this study will inform further program refinement and scale-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Bennett
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Offord Centre for Child Studies, McMaster University/McMaster Children’s Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre Hamilton Health Sciences/McMaster Children’s Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Irene Drmic
- Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre Hamilton Health Sciences/McMaster Children’s Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Julie Gross
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Offord Centre for Child Studies, McMaster University/McMaster Children’s Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Marc Jambon
- Department of Psychology, Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Melissa Kimber
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Offord Centre for Child Studies, McMaster University/McMaster Children’s Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | | | - K. Andrews
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Offord Centre for Child Studies, McMaster University/McMaster Children’s Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Julia Frei
- Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre Hamilton Health Sciences/McMaster Children’s Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - E. Duku
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Offord Centre for Child Studies, McMaster University/McMaster Children’s Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Stelios Georgiades
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Offord Centre for Child Studies, McMaster University/McMaster Children’s Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Andrea Gonzalez
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Offord Centre for Child Studies, McMaster University/McMaster Children’s Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Magdalena Janus
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Offord Centre for Child Studies, McMaster University/McMaster Children’s Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - E. Lipman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Offord Centre for Child Studies, McMaster University/McMaster Children’s Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Paulo Pires
- Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre Hamilton Health Sciences/McMaster Children’s Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Heather Prime
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Caroline Roncadin
- Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre Hamilton Health Sciences/McMaster Children’s Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Mackenzie Salt
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Offord Centre for Child Studies, McMaster University/McMaster Children’s Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Rebecca Shine
- Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre Hamilton Health Sciences/McMaster Children’s Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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Chung KM, Chung E, Lee H. Behavioral Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Brief Review and Guidelines With a Specific Focus on Applied Behavior Analysis. Soa Chongsonyon Chongsin Uihak 2024; 35:29-38. [PMID: 38204739 PMCID: PMC10774556 DOI: 10.5765/jkacap.230019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
We conducted a comprehensive review of behavioral and educational interventions for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The most prominent type of intervention, Comprehensive Early Intervention, often referred to as Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention (EIBI), has been found to be particularly effective in improving intelligence and adaptive behaviors. The naturalistic developmental behavioral intervention, designed to enhance social and communication abilities, showed effectiveness in improving language, cognitive function, and social initiation. However, more studies are needed to examine its effectiveness. Intensive individualized intervention, which provides a tailored intervention for a specific target behavior, was effective in improving social skills and communication, as well as reducing sleep, eating, and toileting problems. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most effective method for dealing with emotional difficulties, but it has not been widely used because of the shortage of trained experts. Parent-mediated intervention (PMI) involves parents acquiring knowledge and specific skills to improve their child's functioning or reduce challenging behaviors. Speech and language therapy, sensory integration, Treatment and Education of Autistic and related Communications Handicapped Children, developmental approaches, and social stories are frequently used interventions. However, evidence of their effectiveness has yet to be well established. Based on these findings, intervention recommendations for autism include EIBI, Early Start Denver Model, intensive individualized intervention, CBT, and PMI. The choice of intervention should be tailored to the individual's needs and delivered by qualified professionals with expertise in the specific intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyong-Mee Chung
- Department of Psychology, College of Arts and Science, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eunsun Chung
- Department of Psychology, College of Arts and Science, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hoomyung Lee
- Department of Psychology, College of Arts and Science, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
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Curatolo P, Scheper M, Emberti Gialloreti L, Specchio N, Aronica E. Is tuberous sclerosis complex-associated autism a preventable and treatable disorder? World J Pediatr 2024; 20:40-53. [PMID: 37878130 DOI: 10.1007/s12519-023-00762-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a genetic disorder caused by inactivating mutations in the TSC1 and TSC2 genes, causing overactivation of the mechanistic (previously referred to as mammalian) target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway in fetal life. The mTOR pathway plays a crucial role in several brain processes leading to TSC-related epilepsy, intellectual disability, and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Pre-natal or early post-natal diagnosis of TSC is now possible in a growing number of pre-symptomatic infants. DATA SOURCES We searched PubMed for peer-reviewed publications published between January 2010 and April 2023 with the terms "tuberous sclerosis", "autism", or "autism spectrum disorder"," animal models", "preclinical studies", "neurobiology", and "treatment". RESULTS Prospective studies have highlighted that developmental trajectories in TSC infants who were later diagnosed with ASD already show motor, visual and social communication skills in the first year of life delays. Reliable genetic, cellular, electroencephalography and magnetic resonance imaging biomarkers can identify pre-symptomatic TSC infants at high risk for having autism and epilepsy. CONCLUSIONS Preventing epilepsy or improving therapy for seizures associated with prompt and tailored treatment strategies for autism in a sensitive developmental time window could have the potential to mitigate autistic symptoms in infants with TSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Curatolo
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Systems Medicine Department, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Mirte Scheper
- Department of Neuropathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Leonardo Emberti Gialloreti
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Specchio
- Clinical and Experimental Neurology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Full Member of European Reference Network EpiCARE, Piazza S. Onofrio 4, 00165, Rome, Italy.
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Department of Neuropathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Mestermann S, Kleinöder JM, Arndt M, Krämer J, Eichler A, Kratz O. The Father's Part: A Pilot Evaluation of a Father-Centered Family Intervention Group in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 14:13. [PMID: 38247664 PMCID: PMC10812738 DOI: 10.3390/bs14010013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Changes in parental roles have renewed the focus on a father's involvement in an offspring's psychological development. However, fathers are still under-represented in family research. There are only a few structured father-centered intervention programs in child and adolescent psychiatry. In a German population sample, a pilot father-centered family intervention program with n = 16 participants, conducted in person (n = 8) and online (n = 8), in a child and adolescent psychiatry inpatient/day clinic setting was evaluated by comparing paternal stress, PSE, and child-rated paternal competence in a pre-post design. Participating fathers showed significant decreases in child-related parenting stress (presence: p = 0.042, online: p = 0.047) and significant increases in PSE (p = 0.006/0.012). Parent-related stress and child-rated paternal competence were unaffected (p = 0.108/0.171; p = 0.167/0.101), while small-to-medium effect size measures pointed in the direction of our hypothesis (d = 0.48/0.36; d = 0.37/0.50). Participant satisfaction was higher in person than online (p = 0.008). As social and biological fathers have important influences on child and adolescent well-being and development, they should be included more frequently in prevention and intervention programs. Fathers seem to benefit from gender-specific intervention programs with regard to stress reduction, as well as experiencing competence- and PSE-increasing effects.
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Maggio R, Turriziani L, Campestre C, Di Cara M, Tripodi E, Impallomeni C, Quartarone A, Passantino C, Cucinotta F. An individual-supported program to enhance placement in a sheltered work environment of autistic individuals mostly with intellectual disability: a prospective observational case series in an Italian community service. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1225236. [PMID: 38025472 PMCID: PMC10651717 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1225236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Autism spectrum disorder is a lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder. The profile of functioning in autistic people is very heterogeneous, and it is necessary to take into account individual characteristics to better support integration in the workplace. However, unemployment rates are higher for autistic people than for other types of disabilities. We present a prospective case series to explore the feasibility and efficacy of an individual-supported program to enhance placement in a sheltered work environment delivered by an Italian community day care center. Methods Autistic subjects, aged from 12 to 31 years, participated in an individual-supported program regarding employment in sheltered art workshops, integrated into the regular activity of a semi-residential center three times a week for 1 year. Their feasibility retention rate and time worked per session were registered; moreover, working methods efficacy and self-organization improvement were tracked by the Likert-based rating system. Secondary outcome measures span functional levels, challenge behaviors, and sensory problems. Results All the individuals presented a good adaptation to the environment, with a significant increase in time worked per session. After 1 year, the intervention allowed an increase in tasks completed in an assigned complex job and an improvement in self-organization within the work schedule in a group of subjects consisting mainly of severe-to-moderate levels of autism severity (86.6%). Finally, we observed a significant increase in independent functioning areas of the TEACCH transitional assessment profile. Challenge behaviors and sensory problems were also recorded. Conclusion This case series supports the idea that individual-supported programs for placement in sheltered job environments delivered by community day care centers could be feasible and effective for ASD with higher levels of severity and co-occurring intellectual disability. Further targeted studies based on community models and accessible methods need to be planned to define the effectiveness of the intervention and promote improved practice at the community level with a better social impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Maggio
- Center for Autism “Dopo di noi”, Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto, Messina, Italy
| | - Laura Turriziani
- Center for Autism “Dopo di noi”, Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto, Messina, Italy
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Human Pathology of the Adult and Developmental Age, “Gaetano Barresi” University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Caterina Campestre
- Center for Autism “Dopo di noi”, Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto, Messina, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Claudio Passantino
- Center for Autism “Dopo di noi”, Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto, Messina, Italy
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Pickard K, Burrell TL, Brasher S, Buckley D, Gillespie S, Sharp W, Scahill L. Examining adaptations necessary to support the implementation of a parent-mediated intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder and moderate feeding problems. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2023; 27:2434-2445. [PMID: 37062908 DOI: 10.1177/13623613231166181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Moderate feeding problems and disruptive mealtime behaviors are common in children with autism spectrum disorder. Although parent-mediated interventions are able to support feeding problems in autistic children, most research has occurred within specialty clinics when delivered by highly trained clinicians. Thus, the fit of these interventions within community settings is not clear. To address this limitation, this study explored adaptations to a parent-mediated intervention, Managing Eating Aversions and Limited Variety (i.e. MEAL Plan), to improve its fit and use within community settings. Participants were 14 multidisciplinary providers who attended one of the three intensive workgroups that included focus groups about the fit of MEAL Plan in their practice setting. Qualitative analysis was used to determine the main themes that came up within the focus groups. Specific themes included the appropriateness MEAL Plan for autistic and non-autistic children, how providers might adapt their delivery of MEAL Plan, billing and insurance considerations, administrator support for MEAL Plan, and the content and format of ongoing training and consultation. By proactively considering and responding to these factors, it may be possible to enhance MEAL Plan so that it is better able to be delivered and sustained within community practices that support autistic children.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - T Lindsey Burrell
- Atlanta Children's Center, Emory University, USA
- Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, USA
| | | | | | | | - William Sharp
- Emory University, USA
- Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, USA
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12
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Cheng WM, Smith TB, Butler M, Taylor TM, Clayton D. Effects of Parent-Implemented Interventions on Outcomes of Children with Autism: A Meta-Analysis. J Autism Dev Disord 2023; 53:4147-4163. [PMID: 35996037 PMCID: PMC10539413 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05688-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have been shown to benefit from parent-implemented interventions (PIIs). This meta-analysis improved on prior reviews of PIIs by evaluating RCTs and multiple potential moderators, including indicators of research quality. Fifty-one effect sizes averaged moderately strong overall benefits of PIIs (g = 0.553), with studies having lower risk of research bias yielding lower estimates (g = 0.47). Parent and observer ratings yielded similar averaged estimates for positive behavior/social skills (g = 0.603), language/communication (g = 0.545), maladaptive behavior (g = 0.519), and to a lesser extent, adaptive behavior/life skills (g = 0.239). No other study, intervention, or participant characteristic moderated outcomes. PIIs with children with ASD tend to be effective across a variety of circumstances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wai Man Cheng
- Department of Counseling Psychology and Special Education, Brigham Young University Provo, 340 McKay Building, Provo, UT, 84602, USA.
| | - Timothy B Smith
- Department of Counseling Psychology and Special Education, Brigham Young University Provo, 340 McKay Building, Provo, UT, 84602, USA.
| | - Marshall Butler
- Department of Counseling Psychology and Special Education, Brigham Young University Provo, 340 McKay Building, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Tina M Taylor
- Department of Counseling Psychology and Special Education, Brigham Young University Provo, 340 McKay Building, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Devan Clayton
- Department of Counseling Psychology and Special Education, Brigham Young University Provo, 340 McKay Building, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
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13
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Hudson JL, Minihan S, Chen W, Carl T, Fu M, Tully L, Kangas M, Rosewell L, McDermott EA, Wang Y, Stubbs T, Martiniuk A. Interventions for Young Children's Mental Health: A Review of Reviews. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 2023; 26:593-641. [PMID: 37488453 PMCID: PMC10465658 DOI: 10.1007/s10567-023-00443-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
To determine the efficacy of intervention programs for young children (4-9 years) with emerging mental health needs, we conducted a review of meta-analytic and systematic reviews of the intervention literature. Of 41,061 abstracts identified and 15,076 screened, 152 review articles met the inclusion criteria. We reviewed interventions across multiple disciplines targeting: (1) general mental health concerns; (2) internalizing symptoms; (3) externalizing symptoms; (4) anxiety; (5) depression; (6) trauma; (7) symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder; and (8) mental health concerns associated with autism spectrum disorder. Substantial evidence was found for the efficacy of behavioral and cognitive behavioral interventions for general mental health concerns, externalizing symptoms (generally, as well as ADHD, conduct, and other behavioral symptoms) and internalizing symptoms (generally, as well as anxiety) aged 4-9 years. Emerging evidence was identified for interventions targeting trauma symptoms, depression symptoms, and social, emotional and behavioral symptoms in autism spectrum disorder in children aged 4-9 years. Currently there is only limited emerging evidence regarding non-behavioral or non-cognitive behavioral interventions for programs targeting children ages 4-9 years where the aim is to deliver an evidence-based program to improve child social, emotional and/or behavioral functioning. Given the recent rises in mental health needs reported in children, targeted behavioral-and/or cognitive behavior therapy-based interventions should be made widely available to children (and their families) who experience elevated symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Hudson
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Savannah Minihan
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Wenting Chen
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Talia Carl
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michele Fu
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Lucy Tully
- School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Maria Kangas
- School of Psychological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Linda Rosewell
- School of Psychological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Emma A McDermott
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Yiwen Wang
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Thomas Stubbs
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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14
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Lim N, O'Reilly M, Russell-George A, Londoño FV. A Meta-Analysis of Parenting Interventions for Immigrants. PREVENTION SCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR PREVENTION RESEARCH 2023; 24:1152-1173. [PMID: 36633767 DOI: 10.1007/s11121-022-01488-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
In light of increasing migration rates and the unique experiences of immigrants, this meta-analysis examined the effects of parenting interventions for immigrants. Specifically, we described the characteristics of parenting interventions for immigrants, examined cultural and/or linguistic adaptations made to the interventions, analyzed intervention effects, and examined potential moderating variables. Four electronic databases were searched in February 2021 for peer-reviewed articles published in English. Studies that involved immigrant parents, used an experimental design, and investigated an intervention targeting skills that parents could use directly with their children were included. Sixteen group design and two single-case design studies met inclusion criteria. The risk of publication bias was examined using funnel plots and found to be low. Overall, most parenting interventions for immigrants focused on young children and were delivered in groups. Interventions produced small to moderate effects on parent and child outcomes, which is comparable to those for the general population. All studies made cultural adaptations, with the most common being language. Moderator analyses indicate that the effects of interventions with surface structure adaptations were similar to those with deep structure adaptations. Limitations included the low methodological rigor of included studies and the exclusion of grey literature. More works of research on the relative effects of specific adaptations, such as ethnicity matching, are needed to better serve this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataly Lim
- The University of Texas at Austin, Speedway, Austin, TX, USA.
| | - Mark O'Reilly
- The University of Texas at Austin, Speedway, Austin, TX, USA
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15
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Burnley A, St Clair M, Dack C, Thompson H, Wren Y. Exploring the Psychosocial Experiences of Individuals with Developmental Language Disorder During Childhood: A Qualitative Investigation. J Autism Dev Disord 2023:10.1007/s10803-023-05946-3. [PMID: 37338728 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-023-05946-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
Children with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) often experience co-occurring psychosocial difficulties, the developmental trajectories of which are still not fully understood. This study sought to explore the manifestation of such difficulties during childhood, through first-hand accounts of those with DLD and their close relatives. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 mothers of children with DLD (aged 6-12 years old) and were analysed alongside the secondary data from interviews of five adults with DLD. Interviews were conducted online; all participants resided in Europe and were fluent in spoken and written English. A process of interpretive phenomenological analysis resulted in the development of five overall themes: experiencing anxiety, social frustrations, maintaining factors, childhood strengths and the parenting experience. Cognitive appraisals appeared particularly important during childhood in both escalating and maintaining anxiety, low self-esteem, emotion dysregulation and social frustrations. High levels of isolation and stress were experienced by all mothers. The findings suggest parents in the United Kingdom and Ireland require more support and guidance at the point of diagnosis than is currently provided. Emphasis was given to the link between children's experience of anxiety and social behaviours, such as withdrawal, as well as their intolerance of uncertainty. Internalising symptoms were a prioritisation for intervention during childhood by both parents and adults with DLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annabel Burnley
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, 10 West, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK.
| | - Michelle St Clair
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, 10 West, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Charlotte Dack
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, 10 West, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Hannah Thompson
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, 10 West, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Yvonne Wren
- Bristol Dental School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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16
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Ağırkan M, Koç M, Avcı ÖH. How effective are group-based psychoeducation programs for parents of children with ASD in Turkey? A systematic review and meta-analysis. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2023; 139:104554. [PMID: 37301054 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2023.104554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Recent research shows that group-based psychoeducation programs designed for parents of children with ASD have grown in popularity over time. The international evidence for the effectiveness of psychoeducation programs designed for parents of children with ASD in developed societies emphasizes the importance of providing a synthesis of the effectiveness of programs in developing societies. This study's primary aim is to assess the efficacy of group-based psychoeducation programs in Turkey for parents of children with ASD. The second aim is to investigate how the programs are influenced by the potential moderators (type of involvement, research design, number of sessions, duration of sessions, and number of participants). For these purposes, a database search was conducted that included group-based psychoeducation programs for parents of children with ASD implemented in Turkey. Twelve group-based psychoeducation programs that met the inclusion criteria were included in the study. The results showed that group-based psychoeducation programs for parents of children with ASD had "medium" effects on psychological symptoms [ES(SE) = 0.65 (.08), 95%CI (0.48-0.81)], "low" effects on social skills [ES(SE) = 0.32 (.16), 95%CI (0.02-0.62)], and "high" effects on well-being [ES(SE) = 1.05 (.19), 95%CI (0.66-1.43)]. According to moderator analyses, the type of involvement and the number of sessions were statistically significant moderators of psychological symptoms, but not the research design, duration of sessions, or number of participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murat Ağırkan
- Department of Psychological Counseling and Guidance, Faculty of Education, Erzincan Binali Yıldırım University, 23200 Erzincan, Turkey.
| | - Muharrem Koç
- Department of Psychological Counseling and Guidance, Hacettepe University, 06530 Beytepe, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Özlem Haskan Avcı
- Department of Psychological Counseling and Guidance, Hacettepe University, 06530 Beytepe, Ankara, Turkey.
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17
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Burrell TL, Sharp WG, Gillespie S, Pickard K, Brasher S, Buckley D, Scahill L. A Survey of Community Providers on Feeding Problems in Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2023:10.1007/s10803-023-06013-7. [PMID: 37256479 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-023-06013-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Feeding problems, ranging from mild to severe, are common in children with autism spectrum disorder. We conducted a 15-item online survey of community providers to gather information on service demand and current treatment approaches for this clinical population. METHODS Respondents, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, registered dietitians, and Board-Certified Behavior Analysts, were recruited via e-mail listservs, professional conferences, continuing education programs, social media and electronic newsletters. The survey included questions about professional discipline, years in practice, patient population served, feeding problem types, therapeutic approaches, and level of interest in parent-mediated interventions. RESULTS A total of 541 community practitioners responded to the survey; 419 provided usable data. Across all providers, 97% (n = 406) reported seeing children with ASD and feeding problems. Of these, 90% (n = 367) offered treatment. Providers (n = 23) who did not treat feeding problems cited "insufficient training." Most common presenting problems included limited dietary variety, texture sensitivity, and disruptive mealtime behavior. Although treatment approaches varied across disciplines, 89.3% indicated openness to parent-mediated treatment. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate a high demand for treatment of children with ASD and feeding problems across disciplines. Food selectivity was the most common problem. Treatment approaches varied across disciplines. Dissemination and implementation of evidence-based, parent-mediated intervention is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Lindsey Burrell
- Emory University School of Medicine, 201 Dowman Dr, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Marcus Autism Center, 1920 Briarcliff Rd NE, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Children?s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - William G Sharp
- Emory University School of Medicine, 201 Dowman Dr, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Marcus Autism Center, 1920 Briarcliff Rd NE, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Children?s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Scott Gillespie
- Emory University School of Medicine, 201 Dowman Dr, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Katherine Pickard
- Emory University School of Medicine, 201 Dowman Dr, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Marcus Autism Center, 1920 Briarcliff Rd NE, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Susan Brasher
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, 1520 Clifton Road, NE, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Derianne Buckley
- Marcus Autism Center, 1920 Briarcliff Rd NE, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Children?s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Lawrence Scahill
- Emory University School of Medicine, 201 Dowman Dr, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Marcus Autism Center, 1920 Briarcliff Rd NE, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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18
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Palmer M, Carter Leno V, Hallett V, Mueller JM, Breese L, Pickles A, Slonims V, Scott S, Charman T, Simonoff E. Effects of a Parenting Intervention for Emotional and Behavioral Problems in Young Autistic Children Under Conditions of Enhanced Uncertainty: Two-Year Follow-up of a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial Cohort (ASTAR) During the United Kingdom COVID-19 Pandemic. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2023; 62:558-567. [PMID: 36639313 PMCID: PMC9832423 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2022.09.436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Most young autistic children display emotional and behavioral problems (EBPs). There is evidence that behavioral parenting interventions (BPIs) reduce these. The COVID-19 pandemic and associated lockdowns can be seen as a natural experiment to test the longer-term effect of BPIs under conditions of increased uncertainty. METHOD Opportunistic follow-up (n = 49) of a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) cohort (n = 62 autistic children aged 6-11 years; originally randomized to a 12-week group BPI [Predictive Parenting; n = 31] or an attention control [Psychoeducation; n = 31]) was conducted during COVID-19-related lockdowns. Measures of parent-reported child irritability and parenting stress were collected at 3 time points (baseline: mean age = 6.7 years; primary endpoint: mean age = 7.1 years, ∼5 months after randomization; and COVID-19 follow-up: mean age = 8.8 years, ∼2 years after randomization). We tested the magnitude of intervention effects using point estimates of differences in child irritability and parenting stress between arms at primary endpoint and COVID-19 follow-up, covarying for baseline scores. We used area under the curve (AUC) analyses to obtain overall estimates of the average intervention effect across all 3 timepoints. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with a subsample of parents (n = 18). RESULTS A small but significant intervention effect was found from baseline to COVID-19 follow-up in favor of Predictive Parenting on parent-reported child irritability (d = -0.33, 95% CI = -0.65, -0.01) and parenting stress (d = -0.31, 95% CI = -0.59, -0.03). No overall mean intervention effect for these measures as estimated by the AUC analyses (which takes into account the nonsignificant effect at primary endpoint) was found. Interview feedback on the both interventions was positive, and parents reported using strategies from Predictive Parenting during COVID-19-related restrictions. CONCLUSION This opportunistic follow-up study at a time of stress indicates the need for careful consideration of how and when to measure the effects of BPIs in autistic child populations. Future trials should consider both the most appropriate endpoint and in what context effects may be more likely to be seen. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION INFORMATION Autism Spectrum Treatment and Resilience (ASTAR); https://www.isrctn.com; 91411078.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Palmer
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom.
| | - Virginia Carter Leno
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Victoria Hallett
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joanne M Mueller
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lauren Breese
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Pickles
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Vicky Slonims
- Newcomen Neurodevelopmental Centre, Children's Neurosciences, Evelina Children's Hospital, Guy's and St Thomas NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen Scott
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom; South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tony Charman
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom; South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emily Simonoff
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom; South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
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19
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Kenworthy L, Childress D, Armour AC, Verbalis A, Zhang A, Troxel M, Handsman R, Kocher K, Myrick Y, Werner M, Alexander KC, Cannon L, Anthony LG. Leveraging technology to make parent training more accessible: Randomized trial of in-person versus online executive function training for parents of autistic children. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2023; 27:616-628. [PMID: 35916246 PMCID: PMC9892365 DOI: 10.1177/13623613221111212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT This study compared the first online parent training program for executive function intervention for autism to in-person parent training on the same content. Participants were parents of autistic children, who were between 8 and 12 years of age and did not have intellectual disability. Parents were randomized to the in-person (n = 51) or online (n = 46) training conditions. Both trainings were developed with stakeholder (parents and autistic people) guidance. In this trial, most parents reported that they liked both trainings and that they were able to implement what they learned with their children. Parents in both groups spent equivalent amounts of time (about 8 hours) with the training materials, but while 94% of parents in the in-person training attended both parent trainings, only 59% of parents in the online group completed all 10 online modules. Parents reported that it was difficult to stay motivated to complete the online trainings over the 10-week trial. Parent and child outcomes did not differ significantly between the groups. Overall, parents reported that the trainings resulted in a reduction in their own parenting strain and improvements in their child's flexibility, emotional control, and global executive function, but not planning and organization. These findings indicated brief in-person and online training can help parents learn to support and improve their autistic children's executive function abilities, reducing their own experience of parenting strain. The finding that the online training was equivalent to the in-person trainings is important because it is accessible to parents who encounter barriers to in-person care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Mary Troxel
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, USA
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20
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Trembath D, Varcin K, Waddington H, Sulek R, Bent C, Ashburner J, Eapen V, Goodall E, Hudry K, Roberts J, Silove N, Whitehouse A. Non-pharmacological interventions for autistic children: An umbrella review. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2023; 27:275-295. [PMID: 36081343 DOI: 10.1177/13623613221119368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT What is already known about the topic?The delivery of evidence-based interventions is an important part of the clinical pathway for many autistic children and their families. However, parents, practitioners, and policymakers face challenges making evidence informed decisions, due to the wide variety of interventions available and the large, and often inconsistent, body of evidence regarding their effectiveness.What this paper adds?This is a comprehensive umbrella review, also known as a 'review of reviews', which examined the range of interventions available, the evidence for their effectiveness, and whether effects were influenced by factors relating to individual children (e.g. chronological age, core autism characteristics, and related skills) or the ways interventions were delivered (by whom and in what setting, format, mode, and amount). There was evidence for positive therapeutic effects for some, but not all, interventions. No single intervention had a positive effect for all child and family outcomes of interest. The influence of child and delivery characteristics on effects was unclear.Implications for practice, research, and policyThe findings provide parents, practitioners, and policymakers with a synthesis of the research evidence to inform decision-making and highlight the importance of individualised approaches in the absence of clear and consistent evidence. The findings also highlight the need to improve consistency and completeness in reporting of research studies, so that the same questions may be answered more comprehensively in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Andrew Whitehouse
- Telethon Kids Institute and The University of Western Australia, Australia
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21
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Leno VC, Wright N, Pickles A, Bedford R, Zaidman-Zait A, Kerns C, Zwaigenbaum L, Duku E, Bennett T, Georgiades S, Smith IM, Richards A, Vaillancourt T, Szatmari P, Elsabbagh M. Longitudinal associations between early childhood irritability and adolescent depression symptoms in autistic children are mediated by peer relationships but not educational engagement. Dev Psychopathol 2023; 36:1-11. [PMID: 36700357 PMCID: PMC7615659 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579422001316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
In the general population, irritability is associated with later depression. Despite irritability being more prevalent in autistic children, the long-term sequelae are not well explored. We tested whether irritability in early childhood predicted depression symptoms in autistic adolescents, and whether associations could be explained by difficulties in peer relationships and lower educational engagement. Analyses tested the longitudinal associations between early childhood irritability (ages 3-5) and adolescent depression symptoms (age 14) in a prospective inception cohort of autistic children (N = 390), followed from early in development shortly after they received a clinical diagnosis. Mediators were measured in mid-childhood (age 10) by a combination of measures, from which latent factors for peer relationships and educational engagement were estimated. Results showed early childhood irritability was positively associated with adolescent depression symptoms, and this association remained when adjusting for baseline depression. A significant indirect pathway through peer relationships was found, which accounted for around 13% of the association between early childhood irritability and adolescent depression, suggesting peer problems may partially mediate the association between irritability and later depression. No mediation effects were found for education engagement. Results highlight the importance of early screening and intervention for co-occurring irritability and peer problems in young autistic children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Carter Leno
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola Wright
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychology, Manchester Metropolitan University, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Pickles
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, United Kingdom
| | - Rachael Bedford
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, United Kingdom
| | | | - Connor Kerns
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | - Eric Duku
- McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Isabel M. Smith
- Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Autism Research Centre, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Annie Richards
- Autism Research Centre, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Tracy Vaillancourt
- Counselling Psychology, Faculty of Education, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter Szatmari
- University of Toronto, Canada
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Canada
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mayada Elsabbagh
- Montreal Neurological Institute, Azrieli Centre for Autism Research, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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22
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McCrossin J, Lach L, McGrath P. Content analysis of parent training programs for children with neurodisabilities and mental health or behavioral problems: a scoping review. Disabil Rehabil 2023; 45:154-169. [PMID: 34990567 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2021.2017493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Several systematic reviews have examined parent training programs for families of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The present review expands on this literature by describing the components, delivery methods, and level of parent involvement in parent training programs that target families of children with any neurodisability and comorbid disruptive behavior or other mental health problem. MATERIALS AND METHODS Following a scoping review protocol, the search strategy included randomized controlled trials of parent training programs conducted with families of children with neurodisabilities and comorbid disruptive behavior or mental health problems. Study characteristics, program content, delivery methods, and theoretical frameworks were extracted from eligible studies. RESULTS A total of 22 articles were included from the 453 full-text articles initially screened. Thirteen different programs fell into two general categories based on whether they targeted child disruptive behavior or anxiety. Analysis of the content yielded five themes: child skill enhancement, parenting as enacted, parenting as experienced, disability-related parenting, and parent-child relationships. The theoretical underpinnings were identified, when possible, from each study. CONCLUSIONS Parent training programs for parents of children with neurodisabilities targeting child anxiety involved parents in a complementary role in treatment while those targeting disruptive behavior involved parents in a primary role in creating behavior change. We suggest that the extent of parent involvement in interventions be guided by theory rather than diagnosis of the child.Implications for rehabilitationParents of children living with neurodisabilities play a key role in delivering interventions to address comorbid mental health or behavioral problems.Parent training programs for families of children with neurodisabilities vary in relation to their aims, involvement of parents in delivering interventions, disability-specific content, and delivery methods.When referring families, rehabilitation professionals should be aware of aspects of child, parent, and family relational well-being targeted by parent training programs and, when feasible, give families a choice of the style of program to meet their needs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lucyna Lach
- School of Social Work, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
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23
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Carter Leno V, Hollocks MJ, Chandler S, White P, Yorke I, Charman T, Pickles A, Baird G, Simonoff E. Homotypic and Heterotypic Continuity in Psychiatric Symptoms From Childhood to Adolescence in Autistic Youth. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2022; 61:1445-1454. [PMID: 35710080 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2022.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Despite the high prevalence of mental health difficulties in autistic youth, little is known about the patterns of developmental continuity and change in psychiatric symptoms between childhood and adolescence. Using a stratified community-derived sample of autistic youth (n = 101; 57 males, 44 females), within (homotypic) and between (heterotypic) domain associations between psychiatric symptoms in childhood to adolescence were tested as well as whether any continuities were moderated by sex, IQ, autism symptom severity, social economic status, or parental mental health. METHOD Autistic youth were assessed for emotional, behavioral, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms in childhood (age 4-9 years) and adolescence (age 13-17 years) using parental diagnostic interview. Unadjusted and adjusted (accounting for the co-occurrence of psychiatric symptoms in childhood) weighted models tested homotypic and heterotypic associations between symptoms in childhood and adolescence. Moderation of significant pathways was tested using multigroup analysis. RESULTS Adolescent psychiatric symptoms all were predicted by symptoms of their childhood counterparts (emotional symptoms incidence rate ratio [IRR] = 1.06, 95% CI = 1.02-1.10, p < .01; behavioral symptoms IRR = 1.38, 95% CI = 1.21-1.59, p < .01; ADHD symptoms IRR = 1.11, 95% CI = 1.05-1.19, p < .01); the only heterotypic pathway that remained significant in adjusted analyses was from childhood emotional symptoms to adolescent ADHD symptoms (IRR = 1.04, 95% CI = 1.01-1.07, p = .02). Sex moderated the homotypic ADHD symptoms pathway; associations were significant in female participants only. Child IQ moderated the homotypic behavioral symptoms pathway; the association was stronger in youth with IQ <70. CONCLUSION Results from this community-based sample suggest that psychiatric symptoms in autistic youth exhibit substantial developmental continuity and thus highlight the importance of early screening and intervention. Sex and IQ may be important factors to consider when predicting likelihood of stability of ADHD and behavioral symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Carter Leno
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom.
| | - Matthew J Hollocks
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom; South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Susie Chandler
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Pippa White
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Isabel Yorke
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Tony Charman
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom; South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Pickles
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Gillian Baird
- Evelina Children's Hospital, Guy's & St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and King's Health Partners, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emily Simonoff
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom; South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
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24
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Weitlauf AS, Broderick N, Alacia Stainbrook J, Slaughter JC, Taylor JL, Herrington CG, Nicholson AG, Santulli M, Dorris K, Garrett LJ, Hopton M, Kinsman A, Morton M, Vogel A, Dykens EM, Pablo Juárez A, Warren ZE. A Longitudinal RCT of P-ESDM With and Without Parental Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction: Impact on Child Outcomes. J Autism Dev Disord 2022; 52:5403-5413. [PMID: 35040001 PMCID: PMC9289080 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05399-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
This randomized controlled trial (NCT03889821) examined Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) in conjunction with the Parent-implemented Early Start Denver Model (P-ESDM). A previous report described improved metrics of parental distress (Weitlauf et al. in Pediatrics 145(Supplement 1):S81-S92, 2020). This manuscript examines child outcomes. 63 children with ASD (< 36 months) and their parents received 12 P-ESDM sessions. Half of parents also received MBSR. Longitudinal examination of whole sample means revealed modest improvements in autism severity, cognitive, and adaptive skills. There was not a significant time × group interaction for children whose parents received MBSR. Future work should examine more proximal markers of child or dyadic change to enhance understanding of the impact of providing direct treatment for parents as part of early intervention initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy S Weitlauf
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
| | - Neill Broderick
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - J Alacia Stainbrook
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - James C Slaughter
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, USA
| | - Julie Lounds Taylor
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Amy G Nicholson
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Madeline Santulli
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Kristin Dorris
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Michelle Hopton
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Amy Kinsman
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Mary Morton
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Ashley Vogel
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Elisabeth M Dykens
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Psychology and Human Development, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - A Pablo Juárez
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Special Education, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Zachary E Warren
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Psychology and Human Development, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
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25
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Hatch B, Kadlaskar G, Miller M. Diagnosis and treatment children and adolescents with autism and ADHD. PSYCHOLOGY IN THE SCHOOLS 2022; 60:295-311. [PMID: 37065905 PMCID: PMC10092654 DOI: 10.1002/pits.22808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism are neurodevelopmental disorders that emerge in childhood. There is increasing recognition that ADHD and autism frequently co-occur. Yet, questions remain among clinicians regarding the best ways to evaluate and treat co-occurring autism and ADHD. This review outlines issues relevant to providing evidence-based practice to individuals and families who may be experiencing difficulties associated with co-occurring autism and ADHD. After describing the complexities of the co-occurrence of autism and ADHD, we present practical considerations for best practice assessment and treatment of co-occurring autism and ADHD. Regarding assessment, this includes considerations for interviewing parents/caregivers and youth, using validated parent and teacher rating scales, conducting cognitive assessments, and conducting behavior observations. Regarding treatment, consideration is given to behavioral management, school-based interventions, social skills development, and the use of medications. Throughout, we note the quality of evidence that supports a particular component of assessment or treatment, highlighting when evidence is most relevant to those with co-occurring autism and ADHD across stages of development. In light of the current evidence for assessment and treatment of co-occurring autism and ADHD, we conclude by outlining practical implications for clinical and educational practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Burt Hatch
- School of Psychology Victoria University of Wellington Wellington New Zealand
| | - Girija Kadlaskar
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences and MIND Institute University of California Davis California USA
| | - Meghan Miller
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences and MIND Institute University of California Davis California USA
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26
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Chandler S, Carter Leno V, White P, Yorke I, Hollocks MJ, Baird G, Pickles A, Simonoff E, Charman T. Pathways to adaptive functioning in autism from early childhood to adolescence. Autism Res 2022; 15:1883-1893. [PMID: 35899846 PMCID: PMC9796413 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Adaptive functioning is lower in many autistic individuals to a greater extent than would be expected based on IQ. However, the clinical features associated with these difficulties are less well understood. This study examines longitudinal and contemporaneous associations of adaptive functioning in autistic youth across a wide ability range. Parent-reported autism symptoms, co-occurring emotional, behavioral and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms, and IQ were assessed in early childhood (M age 7 years; T1) and 6 years later in adolescence (M age 13 years; T2) in 179 autistic youth. Adaptive functioning was assessed at T2. Structural equation modeling estimated pathways to adaptive functioning from autism, and psychiatric symptoms at T1 and T2, testing whether associations were driven by continuity of behaviors from T1 to T2 or their contemporaneous effect at T2, or both, controlling for T1 IQ. Lower adaptive functioning at T2 was associated with higher T1 and T2 ADHD symptoms (β = -0.14, and β = -0.21) but not behavioral nor emotional symptoms at either timepoint. Lower adaptive functioning at T2 was also associated with lower T1 IQ (β = 0.43) and higher social communication symptoms (β = -0.37) at T2 but not T1, but the relationship with ADHD symptoms remained. Paths were not moderated by sex or IQ. Increased symptoms of ADHD, both in early childhood and contemporaneously, were associated with reduced adaptive functioning in adolescence. Co-occurring ADHD may be a modifiable risk factor for adaptive function impairments and should be routinely assessed and when present evidence-based treatments initiated which may benefit adaptive functioning outcomes. LAY SUMMARY: Adaptive functioning is lower in many autistic individuals to a greater extent than would be expected based on IQ. However, the clinical features associated with these difficulties are less well understood. In a community sample higher attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms, but not emotional or behavioral symptoms, in both early childhood and contemporaneously were associated with lower adaptive functioning in autistic adolescents. Co-occurring ADHD may be a modifiable risk factor for adaptive function difficulties in autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susie Chandler
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | | | - Philippa White
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Isabel Yorke
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Matthew J. Hollocks
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLaM)LondonUK
| | | | - Andrew Pickles
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK,Maudsley Biomedical Research Centre for Mental HealthLondonUK
| | - Emily Simonoff
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLaM)LondonUK,Maudsley Biomedical Research Centre for Mental HealthLondonUK
| | - Tony Charman
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLaM)LondonUK
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27
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Deniz E, Francis G, Torgerson C, Toseeb U. Parent-mediated play‐based interventions to improve social communication and language skills of preschool autistic children: A systematic review and meta-analysis protocol. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0270153. [PMID: 35969530 PMCID: PMC9377609 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Early years interventions have shown to be effective in improving the social communication and language skills of autistic children. Therefore, various play-based interventions have been developed to support those developmental areas of autistic children. Although researchers have previously reported the overall effectiveness of different types of play-based interventions on the social communication and language skills of autistic children, no previous systematic reviews have yet evaluated the effectiveness of parent-mediated play-based interventions in preschool autistic children. The overarching aims of the study will be to (i) report the key characteristics and (ii) synthesise the results of studies evaluating parent-mediated play-based interventions targeting the social communication and language skills of preschool autistic children using experimental designs. A comprehensive search for and screening of the relevant studies published between 2000 and 2021 will be undertaken. To be included, studies will have to (i) use either a randomised control trial or quasi-experimental design, (ii) focus on preschool autistic children aged six years old or younger, (iii) deliver a play-based intervention in non-educational settings, and (iv) include at least one parent as the mediator of the intervention. Data extraction of all included studies will be undertaken using a specially devised template and they will also be assessed for risk of bias using an adapted form from the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. The overall characteristics of the included studies will be reported and a narrative synthesis of the results of the included studies will be undertaken. A meta-analysis may be performed (if justified) to report the pooled effect size of the parent-mediated play-based interventions on the social communication and language skills of preschool autistic children. Trial registration: The current study protocol was pre-registered with the international prospective register of systematic reviews (PROSPERO: CRD42022302220).
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Affiliation(s)
- Emre Deniz
- Department of Education, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Gill Francis
- Department of Education, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Carole Torgerson
- Department of Education, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Umar Toseeb
- Department of Education, University of York, York, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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28
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Jiang CC, Lin LS, Long S, Ke XY, Fukunaga K, Lu YM, Han F. Signalling pathways in autism spectrum disorder: mechanisms and therapeutic implications. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:229. [PMID: 35817793 PMCID: PMC9273593 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01081-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a prevalent and complex neurodevelopmental disorder which has strong genetic basis. Despite the rapidly rising incidence of autism, little is known about its aetiology, risk factors, and disease progression. There are currently neither validated biomarkers for diagnostic screening nor specific medication for autism. Over the last two decades, there have been remarkable advances in genetics, with hundreds of genes identified and validated as being associated with a high risk for autism. The convergence of neuroscience methods is becoming more widely recognized for its significance in elucidating the pathological mechanisms of autism. Efforts have been devoted to exploring the behavioural functions, key pathological mechanisms and potential treatments of autism. Here, as we highlight in this review, emerging evidence shows that signal transduction molecular events are involved in pathological processes such as transcription, translation, synaptic transmission, epigenetics and immunoinflammatory responses. This involvement has important implications for the discovery of precise molecular targets for autism. Moreover, we review recent insights into the mechanisms and clinical implications of signal transduction in autism from molecular, cellular, neural circuit, and neurobehavioural aspects. Finally, the challenges and future perspectives are discussed with regard to novel strategies predicated on the biological features of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Chen Jiang
- International Joint Laboratory for Drug Target of Critical Illnesses; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular & Cerebrovascular Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Li-Shan Lin
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Sen Long
- Department of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital, Mental Health Center Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Xiao-Yan Ke
- Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing Brain Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Kohji Fukunaga
- Department of CNS Drug Innovation, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, 980-8578, Japan
| | - Ying-Mei Lu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China.
| | - Feng Han
- International Joint Laboratory for Drug Target of Critical Illnesses; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular & Cerebrovascular Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China. .,Institute of Brain Science, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China. .,Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, 215002, China.
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29
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Jugovac S, O'Kearney R, Hawes DJ, Pasalich DS. Attachment- and Emotion-Focused Parenting Interventions for Child and Adolescent Externalizing and Internalizing Behaviors: A Meta-Analysis. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 2022; 25:754-773. [PMID: 35680711 PMCID: PMC9622525 DOI: 10.1007/s10567-022-00401-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Attachment- and emotion-focused parenting interventions (AE) have grown in popularity as an alternative to behavioral parent training (BPT) for children and adolescents. AE go beneath behavior by helping parents understand and respond to their child’s underlying attachment and emotional needs. Past reviews have examined their effects on attachment security and caregiver sensitivity, though less is known regarding their effects on child mental health symptoms. Reported here is the first systematic review and meta-analysis of individual and group AE on externalizing behavior (EXT) and internalizing behavior (INT) for children aged 0–18 years. A search of four databases prior to July 2021 elicited 43 studies that met eligibility criteria. Meta-analysis revealed that AE were superior to waitlist controls for EXT (SMD = − 0.17) and INT (SMD = − 0.34). Effects were sustained at follow-up periods of 6 months and greater, and AE considered to target child mental health were significantly more effective than those that did not in reducing EXT and INT. Two studies retrieved directly compared AE to BPT, which showed no evidence of a difference for follow-up measures of EXT. No studies compared AE to BPT on INT. AE demonstrated no evidence of superiority compared to controls for parent mental health. Findings support the potential for AE to reduce EXT and INT in children and adolescents; however, future research should consider the relative effectiveness of AE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Jugovac
- Research School of Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia.
| | - Richard O'Kearney
- Research School of Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - David J Hawes
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Dave S Pasalich
- Research School of Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
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30
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Greenlee JL, Piro-Gambetti B, Putney J, Papp LM, Hartley SL. Marital satisfaction, parenting styles, and child outcomes in families of autistic children. FAMILY PROCESS 2022; 61:941-961. [PMID: 34389976 PMCID: PMC8841000 DOI: 10.1111/famp.12708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Theory and research on the general population suggest that parents' marital relationship quality is associated with children's emotional and behavioral functioning directly, as well as indirectly, by affecting parenting attitudes and behaviors. However, little has been done to investigate the potential connection among parent marital satisfaction, parenting styles, and outcomes for autistic children. Using longitudinal data collected from 188 couples parenting an autistic child, this study tested the time-ordered indirect effect of parent marital satisfaction (assessed at Time 1) on the internalizing and externalizing symptoms (assessed at Time 3) of autistic children (originally aged 5-12 years) via parenting styles (assessed at Time 2) using actor-partner interdependence modeling extended to mediation. Results indicated that a lower level of marital satisfaction at Time 1 predicted impaired child outcomes at Time 3 via its impact on parenting style at Time 2. For both parents, lower marital satisfaction predicted more child externalizing symptoms via reports of more authoritarian parenting style. Lower marital satisfaction in mothers at Time 1 was also associated with higher levels of child internalizing symptoms at Time 3 via increased authoritarian parenting in mothers. No partner effects were found. A family-wide approach that includes support for the parent marital relationship, which may have downstream effects on parenting, is important for promoting optimal emotional and behavioral health in autistic children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L Greenlee
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Waisman Center, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Brianna Piro-Gambetti
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Waisman Center, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Jennifer Putney
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Waisman Center, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Lauren M Papp
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Sigan L Hartley
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Waisman Center, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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31
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Parent-Reported Assessment Scores Reflect the ASD Severity Level in 2- to 7-Year-Old Children. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:children9050701. [PMID: 35626878 PMCID: PMC9139745 DOI: 10.3390/children9050701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the relationship between parent-reported assessments and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) severity level. Parents evaluated 9573 children with ASD on five subscales—combinatorial receptive language, expressive language, sociability, sensory awareness, and health—using the Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklist (ATEC) and Mental Synthesis Evaluation Checklist (MSEC). The scores in every subscale improved with age, and there were clear differences between the three diagnostic categories. The differences between mild and moderate ASD, and moderate and severe ASD reached statistical significance in each subscale and in every age group in children 3 years of age and older. These findings demonstrate a consistent relationship between children’s diagnoses and their assessments and provide evidence in support of the reliability of parent-report evaluations for ASD. Additionally, this is the first investigation of the relationship between ASD severity level and the ATEC/MSEC scores for the age range from 2 to 7 years.
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32
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Nair AS, Priya RS, Rajagopal P, Pradeepa C, Senthil R, Dhanalakshmi S, Lai KW, Wu X, Zuo X. A case study on the effect of light and colors in the built environment on autistic children's behavior. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:1042641. [PMID: 36532166 PMCID: PMC9748440 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1042641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The importance of strategies and services by caregivers and family members substantially impact the psychological and emotional wellbeing of autistic children. The rapid research developments in clinical and non-clinical methods benefit the features of autistic children. Among various internal and external factors, the influence of the built environment also impacts the characteristics of autistic children. This study investigates primarily the psychological effect of light and colors on the mood and behavior of autistic children to identify the most favorable and preferred indoor lights and color shades. METHODS A questionnaire survey was conducted at an autism center among autistic children and their parents. This study included autistic children aged between 6 and 16 (45 males, 42 females, mean age 8.7 years, standard deviation 2.3). Eighty-seven participants were involved in the survey to determine the sensory perceptions, intolerance, preferences, and sensitivities of children with an autism spectrum disorder toward colors and lighting. The margin of error at the statistical analysis's 95% confidence level is ± 0.481. RESULTS As per this case report, the children have various color preferences and respond differently to different shades. Different hues have varying effects on autistic children, with many neutral tones and mellow shades proven to be autistic-friendly with their calming and soothing effect, while bright, bold, and intense colors are refreshing and stimulating. The stimulus of bright-lighting causes behavioral changes in autistic children prone to light sensitivity. CONCLUSION The insights gained from this interaction with parents and caretakers of autistic children could be helpful for designers to incorporate specific autistic-friendly design elements that make productive interior spaces. A complete understanding of the effect of factors like color and lighting on the learning ability and engagement of autistic children in an indoor environment is essential for designers and clinicians. The main findings of this study could be helpful for a designer and clinicians to address designing an autism-friendly built environment with a color palette and lighting scheme conducive to their wellbeing and to maximize their cognitive functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashwini Sunil Nair
- School of Architecture and Interior Design, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, India
| | | | - Prashanthini Rajagopal
- School of Architecture and Interior Design, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, India
| | - Chandramouli Pradeepa
- School of Architecture and Interior Design, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, India
| | - Ramalingam Senthil
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, India
| | - Samiappan Dhanalakshmi
- Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, India
| | - Khin Wee Lai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Xiang Wu
- School of Medical Information and Engineering, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Xiaowei Zuo
- Department of Psychiatry, The Affiliated Xuzhou Oriental Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
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Casper R, Shloim N, Hebron J. Use of non‐directive therapy for adolescents with autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review. COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/capr.12504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Andrews ML, Garcia YA, Catagnus RM, Gould ER. Effects of Acceptance and Commitment Training Plus Behavior Parent Training on Parental Implementation of Autism Treatment. PSYCHOLOGICAL RECORD 2021; 72:601-617. [PMID: 34866659 PMCID: PMC8628834 DOI: 10.1007/s40732-021-00496-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to examine the effects of acceptance and commitment training (ACT) plus behavior parent training (BPT), when delivered via telehealth, on parental implementation of behavioral strategies, experiential avoidance (EA), and stress. The study also examined the subsequent effects on the parents’ autistic children’s behaviors. A multiple baseline design was implemented across four parent-child dyads who participated in the online training. The findings showed that ACT+BPT resulted in parental implementation reaching and maintaining high levels. The training also decreased EA and stress in three parents. Moreover, the parents’ ratings of their children’s challenging behaviors decreased. However, such a trend was not as clearly depicted by direct measures of the children’s behaviors. A social validity interview revealed parents found ACT beneficial in assisting them to learn and use the BPT strategies. Implications and suggestions for future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith L. Andrews
- Applied Behavior Analysis Online Program, The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, 325 North Wells Street, Chicago, IL USA
| | | | - Robyn M. Catagnus
- Applied Behavior Analysis Online Program, The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, 325 North Wells Street, Chicago, IL USA
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Stipanicic A, Couture G, Rivest C, Rousseau M, Paquette M. Au-delà du TED, des compétences parentales à ma portée : évaluation des effets d’un programme de soutien destiné aux parents d’enfants présentant un trouble du spectre de l’autisme. ANNALES MEDICO-PSYCHOLOGIQUES 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.amp.2021.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Charman T, Palmer M, Stringer D, Hallett V, Mueller J, Romeo R, Tarver J, Paris Perez J, Breese L, Hollett M, Cawthorne T, Boadu J, Salazar F, O'Leary M, Beresford B, Knapp M, Slonims V, Pickles A, Scott S, Simonoff E. A Novel Group Parenting Intervention for Emotional and Behavioral Difficulties in Young Autistic Children: Autism Spectrum Treatment and Resilience (ASTAR): A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2021; 60:1404-1418. [PMID: 33965518 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2021.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a group behavioral parenting intervention for emotional and behavioral problems (EBPs) in young autistic children. METHOD This was a feasibility pilot randomized controlled trial comparing a 12-week group behavioral parenting intervention (Predictive Parenting) to an attention control (Psychoeducation). Parents of 62 autistic children 4 to 8 years of age were randomized to Predictive Parenting (n = 31) or Psychoeducation (n = 31). The primary outcome was a blinded observational measure of child behaviors that challenge. Secondary outcomes were observed child compliance and parenting behaviors; parent- and teacher-reported child EBPs; self-reported parenting practices, stress, self-efficacy, and well-being. Cost-effectiveness was also explored. RESULTS Recruitment, retention, completion of measures, treatment fidelity, and parental satisfaction were high for both interventions. There was no group difference in primary outcome: mean log of rate 0.18 lower (d, 90% CI = -0.44 to 0.08) in Predictive Parenting. Differences in rates of child compliance (0.44, 90% CI = 0.11 to 0.77), facilitative parenting (0.63, 90% CI = 0.33 to 0.92) and parent-defined target symptom change (-0.59, 90% CI -0.17 to -1.00) favored Predictive Parenting. There were no differences on other measures. Predictive Parenting was more expensive than Psychoeducation, with a low probability of being more cost-effective. CONCLUSION Feasibility was demonstrated. There was no evidence from this pilot trial that Predictive Parenting resulted in reductions in child EBPs beyond those seen following Psychoeducation; in addition, the effect size was small, and it was more expensive. However, it showed superiority for child compliance and facilitative parenting with moderate effect sizes. Future, definitive studies should evaluate whether augmented or extended intervention would lead to larger improvements. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION INFORMATION Autism Spectrum Treatment and Resilience (ASTAR); https://www.isrctn.com/; 91411078.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony Charman
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom; South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Melanie Palmer
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Dominic Stringer
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Victoria Hallett
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joanne Mueller
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Renee Romeo
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Joanne Tarver
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Juan Paris Perez
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Lauren Breese
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Megan Hollett
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas Cawthorne
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Janet Boadu
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Fernando Salazar
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mark O'Leary
- Bromley Healthcare CIC Ltd, London, United Kingdom
| | - Bryony Beresford
- Social Policy Research Unit, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Knapp
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, United Kingdom
| | - Vicky Slonims
- Newcomen Neurodevelopmental Centre, Children's Neurosciences, Evelina Children's Hospital, Guy's and St Thomas NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Pickles
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen Scott
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom; South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emily Simonoff
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom; South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
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Swiezy N, Smith T, Johnson CR, Bearss K, Lecavalier L, Drill R, Warner D, Deng Y, Xu Y, Dziura J, Handen B, Scahill L. Direct observation in a large-scale randomized trial of parent training in children with autism spectrum disorder and disruptive behavior. RESEARCH IN AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS 2021; 89:101879. [PMID: 34950225 PMCID: PMC8691726 DOI: 10.1016/j.rasd.2021.101879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
A direct observation strategy (Standardized Observation Analogue Procedure, SOAP) was used in a large-scale randomized trial of parent training versus parent education in young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and disruptive behavior. The 16-minute SOAP, modified from an earlier version of this same measure, included parentchild interaction to assess child behavior in a clinical laboratory setting. Despite study entry criteria for all child participants requiring moderate levels of disruptive behavior in this project, 126 of 168 children with complete SOAP data at baseline showed no disruptive behavior on this measure. Although the primary purpose of the study was to determine whether the SOAP could detect differences between the two conditions (i.e.,parent training (PT) and parent education (PE)), baseline observation data was not consistent with parent ratings at baseline or subsequent follow up visits, leaving little room to demonstrate improvement with this observation measure. This and the challenging, time-consuming and resource intensive effort involved in using such a measure in a large randomized scale trial, raises fundamental questions about the validity of the SOAP as an outcome measure in such a study. Further consideration related to the feasibility and practicality of using direct observation as a primary measure in larger scale efforts overall are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Swiezy
- Department of Psychiatry, HANDS in Autism® Interdisciplinary Training and Resource Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN; HANDS in Autism®, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1002 Wishard Drive, Suite 1021, Indianapolis, IN 46202
| | - Tristam Smith
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY; University of Rochester Medical Center School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY 14642
| | - Cindy R. Johnson
- Cleveland Clinic Children’s, Lerner College of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH; Center for Autism, Cleveland Clinic Children’s, 2801 MLK Jr. Drive, Lerner College of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44101
| | - Karen Bearss
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA; Seattle Children’s Autism Center and Research Institute, 4909 25th Avenue, Northeast, Seattle, Washington, 98105; University of Washington, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, 1959 Northeast Pacific Street, Seattle, Washington 98195
| | - Luc Lecavalier
- Departments of Psychology and Psychiatry, Nisonger Center, UCEDD, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH; Ohio State University, Nisonger Center, UCEDD, 371-D McCampbell Hall, 1581 Dodd Drive Columbus, Ohio 43210
| | - Rochelle Drill
- Center for Assessment and Treatment, Chevy Chase, MD; Center for Assessment and Treatment; 8401 Connecticut Avenue, Suite 1000 Chevy Chase, MD 20815
| | | | - Yanhong Deng
- School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT; School of Public Health, Yale University, 300 George street, Suite 511, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - Yunshan Xu
- School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT; School of Public Health, Yale University, 300 George street, Suite 511, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - James Dziura
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT; Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale University, 464 Congress Ave, New Haven, CT, 06519
| | - Ben Handen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA; Western Psychiatric Hospital, 3811 O’Hara St., Pittsburgh PA 15213
| | - Lawrence Scahill
- Department of Pediatrics, Marcus Autism Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Emory, Atlanta, GA; Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Marcus Autism Center, 1920 Briarcliff Road NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30329
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Ding N, Gao H, Jiang J, Zhai M, Shao H, Fu L, Li C, Ren Y, Li Y, Feng M, Cui X, Qiu N, Jin P, Ke X. The characteristics and factors of the internalizing and externalizing behaviours of children at high risk for autism spectrum disorder. BMC Psychiatry 2021; 21:523. [PMID: 34686160 PMCID: PMC8532264 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-021-03479-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The behavioral characteristics of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are not only affected by their disease, but also by their parenting environment. HR-ASD has the risk of developing internalization and externalization problems. How the early development of these behavioral problems is affected by parent-child interaction is worth exploring. We tested whether parent-child interactions and parenting characteristics were associated with behavioural problems during the infant periods. METHODS This study collected data from 91 infants at high risk for ASD and 68 matched typically developing (TD) infants, about their internalizing and externalizing behavioural problems and engagement states (i.e. positive, negative, and parent-child interactions), using free play paradigm. Parent measures were assessed using the Broad Autism Phenotypic Questionnaire (BAPQ) and Parenting Stress Index Short Form (PSI-SF) questionnaire. The core symptoms of ASD were assessed using the the Autism Diagnostic Observational Schedule (ADOS). RESULTS During free play, infants in the HR-ASD group showed more internalizing (P < 0.001) and externalizing (P < 0.05) behaviours and less positive engagement (P < 0.01) than the TD group. In the regression analysis, we found that parenting stress had an impact on the infants' externalizing behaviours (△R2 = 0.215). Parent negative engagement had an impact on the infants' internalizing behaviours (△R2 = 0.451). CONCLUSIONS The present study revealed that children at high risk for ASD exhibited more severe internalizing and externalizing behavioural problems than TD group. The parent negative engagement is associated with behavioural problems. The findings on the contribution of parents' factors to behavioural problems suggests that the parenting stress and parent-child interactions are important factors for mitigating behavioural problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Ding
- Nanjing Brain Hospital, Affiliated with Nanjing Medical University, Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Huiyun Gao
- Nanjing Brain Hospital, Affiliated with Nanjing Medical University, Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Jiying Jiang
- Nanjing Brain Hospital, Affiliated with Nanjing Medical University, Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Mengyao Zhai
- Nanjing Brain Hospital, Affiliated with Nanjing Medical University, Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Huan Shao
- Nanjing Brain Hospital, Affiliated with Nanjing Medical University, Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Linyan Fu
- Nanjing Brain Hospital, Affiliated with Nanjing Medical University, Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Chunyan Li
- Nanjing Brain Hospital, Affiliated with Nanjing Medical University, Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Yanling Ren
- Nanjing Brain Hospital, Affiliated with Nanjing Medical University, Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Yu Li
- Nanjing Brain Hospital, Affiliated with Nanjing Medical University, Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Min Feng
- Nanjing Brain Hospital, Affiliated with Nanjing Medical University, Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Xiwen Cui
- Nanjing Brain Hospital, Affiliated with Nanjing Medical University, Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Nana Qiu
- Nanjing Brain Hospital, Affiliated with Nanjing Medical University, Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Peiying Jin
- Nanjing Brain Hospital, Affiliated with Nanjing Medical University, Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Xiaoyan Ke
- Nanjing Brain Hospital, Affiliated with Nanjing Medical University, Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing, 210029, China.
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MacKenzie KT, Eack SM. Interventions to Improve Outcomes for Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Meta-Analysis. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 52:2859-2883. [PMID: 34189683 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05164-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
This meta-analysis examines the impact of parent interventions on outcomes for parents of children with ASD. A systematic review of the literature produced 37 studies that met inclusion criteria. Random-effects models revealed small but significant impacts of intervention on parental outcomes, primarily in parenting confidence and mental health. No improvements were observed in caregiving burden, family adjustment, physical health, or stress. Significant heterogeneity was observed; however, no moderation effects were detected for intervention or sample characteristics. These findings suggest parent interventions improve parenting confidence and, to a lesser degree, mental health. More work is needed to develop interventions that address a wider range of outcomes for parents of children with ASD. Limitations and implications for future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen T MacKenzie
- School of Social Work, University of Pittsburgh, 2117 Cathedral of Learning, 4200 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA.
| | - Shaun M Eack
- School of Social Work, University of Pittsburgh, 2117 Cathedral of Learning, 4200 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 3811 O'Hara St, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
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40
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Kahn M, Livne-Karp E, Juda-Hanael M, Omer H, Tikotzky L, Anders TF, Sadeh A. Behavioral interventions for infant sleep problems: the role of parental cry tolerance and sleep-related cognitions. J Clin Sleep Med 2021; 16:1275-1283. [PMID: 32279703 DOI: 10.5664/jcsm.8488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVES This study tested whether parental cry tolerance (PCT) and distress-attribution cognitions predict outcomes of behavioral interventions for infant sleep problems. It additionally examined intervention effects on these parental factors. METHODS Participants were 91 infants aged 9-18 months (61% boys) with sleep-related problems and their parents. Families were randomized to 1 of 2 behavioral interventions for infant sleep problems: Checking-in or Camping-out. Assessments were completed at baseline and 1-month post-treatment. Infant sleep was assessed using actigraphy and parent reports on the Brief Infant Sleep Questionnaire. PCT was measured using the Intervention Delay to Infant Crying Video laboratory paradigm, and parental distress-attribution cognitions were assessed via the Infant Sleep Vignettes Interpretation Scale. RESULTS Higher PCT and lower parental distress-attribution cognitions at baseline predicted greater improvement in parent-reported sleep problems post-treatment, and higher PCT additionally predicted larger reductions in the number of reported nighttime awakenings. Moreover, PCT increased, and distress-attribution decreased, following the interventions. CONCLUSIONS Parent factors both predict and are predicted by behavioral interventions for infant sleep problems. This study's findings suggest that parents with low cry tolerance and high distress-attribution cognitions derive less benefit from these interventions and may thus require augmented care. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION Registry: ClinicalTrials.gov; Name: Interventions for sleep problems in early childhood; URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01489215;Identifier: NCT01489215.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Kahn
- School of Psychological Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Efrat Livne-Karp
- School of Psychological Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | | | - Haim Omer
- School of Psychological Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Liat Tikotzky
- Department of Psychology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | | | - Avi Sadeh
- School of Psychological Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
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Weiss JA, Robinson S, Riddell RP, Flora D. Understanding Stability and Change in Perceived Social Support in Parents of Autistic Children and Adolescents. FRONTIERS IN REHABILITATION SCIENCES 2021; 2:679974. [PMID: 36188809 PMCID: PMC9397722 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2021.679974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Parents of children with autism often have their own support needs. Informal social support can be an important component of managing parenting-related stressors. We know very little about the factors that lead to higher levels of perceived social support or the potential reciprocal relationship social support has with other factors in parents of children with autism. The current longitudinal study examined the reciprocal relations of perceived social support and parent stress and child behavior problems across a 1-year period, using three time points. There was remarkable stability in variables over time. Baseline perceived social support significantly predicted changes in child behavior and parent stress at the 6-month time point, but neither of those variables significantly predicted social support. This study adds to our understanding of social support and clarifies how perceived social support relates to other factors longitudinally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan A. Weiss
- Developmental Disabilities and Mental Health Laboratory, Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
- *Correspondence: Jonathan A. Weiss
| | - Suzanne Robinson
- Developmental Disabilities and Mental Health Laboratory, Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Roncesvalles Psychology Clinic, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rebecca Pillai Riddell
- Opportunities to Understanding Childhood Hurt Laboratory, Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - David Flora
- Quantitative Methods, Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Correll CU, Cortese S, Croatto G, Monaco F, Krinitski D, Arrondo G, Ostinelli EG, Zangani C, Fornaro M, Estradé A, Fusar-Poli P, Carvalho AF, Solmi M. Efficacy and acceptability of pharmacological, psychosocial, and brain stimulation interventions in children and adolescents with mental disorders: an umbrella review. World Psychiatry 2021; 20:244-275. [PMID: 34002501 PMCID: PMC8129843 DOI: 10.1002/wps.20881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Top-tier evidence on the safety/tolerability of 80 medications in children/adolescents with mental disorders has recently been reviewed in this jour-nal. To guide clinical practice, such data must be combined with evidence on efficacy and acceptability. Besides medications, psychosocial inter-ventions and brain stimulation techniques are treatment options for children/adolescents with mental disorders. For this umbrella review, we systematically searched network meta-analyses (NMAs) and meta-analyses (MAs) of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating 48 medications, 20 psychosocial interventions, and four brain stimulation techniques in children/adolescents with 52 different mental disorders or groups of mental disorders, reporting on 20 different efficacy/acceptability outcomes. Co-primary outcomes were disease-specific symptom reduction and all-cause discontinuation ("acceptability"). We included 14 NMAs and 90 MAs, reporting on 15 mental disorders or groups of mental disorders. Overall, 21 medications outperformed placebo regarding the co-primary outcomes, and three psychosocial interventions did so (while seven outperformed waiting list/no treatment). Based on the meta-analytic evidence, the most convincing efficacy profile emerged for amphetamines, methylphenidate and, to a smaller extent, behavioral therapy in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder; aripiprazole, risperidone and several psychosocial interventions in autism; risperidone and behavioral interventions in disruptive behavior disorders; several antipsychotics in schizophrenia spectrum disorders; fluoxetine, the combination of fluoxetine and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and interpersonal therapy in depression; aripiprazole in mania; fluoxetine and group CBT in anxiety disorders; fluoxetine/selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, CBT, and behavioral therapy with exposure and response prevention in obsessive-compulsive disorder; CBT in post-traumatic stress disorder; imipramine and alarm behavioral intervention in enuresis; behavioral therapy in encopresis; and family therapy in anorexia nervosa. Results from this umbrella review of interventions for mental disorders in children/adolescents provide evidence-based information for clinical decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph U Correll
- Department of Psychiatry, Zucker Hillside Hospital, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Molecular Medicine, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA
- Center for Psychiatric Neuroscience, Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Samuele Cortese
- Center for Innovation in Mental Health, School of Psychology, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences (CNS and Psychiatry), Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- Solent NHS Trust, Southampton, UK
- Hassenfeld Children's Hospital at NYU Langone, New York University Child Study Center, New York, NY, USA
- Division of Psychiatry and Applied Psychology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | | | | | | | - Gonzalo Arrondo
- Center for Innovation in Mental Health, School of Psychology, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- Mind-Brain Group, Institute for Culture and Society, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | | | - Caroline Zangani
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Michele Fornaro
- Department of Psychiatry, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Andrés Estradé
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-detection (EPIC) Lab, Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Catholic University, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Paolo Fusar-Poli
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-detection (EPIC) Lab, Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- OASIS Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Andre F Carvalho
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Marco Solmi
- Neurosciences Department, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-detection (EPIC) Lab, Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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Estes A, Yoder P, McEachin J, Hellemann G, Munson J, Greenson J, Rocha M, Gardner E, Rogers SJ. The effect of early autism intervention on parental sense of efficacy in a randomized trial depends on the initial level of parent stress. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2021; 25:1924-1934. [PMID: 33858234 DOI: 10.1177/13623613211005613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT This is a study of the secondary effects of interventions for young children with autism on their parents. Specifically, we were interested in the impact on parent's sense of efficacy, or how confident and competent a parent feels about themselves as a parent. We tested three ideas: (1) that the style of the intervention, whether it was more or less structured and whether the parent had a more or less formal role, would impact a parent's sense of efficacy; (2) that the intensity of the intervention, how many hours per week the intervention was delivered, would impact parental efficacy; and (3) that the parent's level of stress prior to intervention would impact how intensity and style effected efficacy. We randomly assigned 87 children with autism, age 13-30 months, into one of four conditions: 15 versus 25 intervention hours crossed with two different styles of intervention. We used statistical tests to examine these ideas. We found that parental efficacy was related to intervention intensity but not style. Parents with higher stress at the beginning of a 1-year, home-based, comprehensive intervention program had a higher sense of parenting efficacy if their child received lower intensity intervention; parents with lower stress at baseline had a higher sense of efficacy if their child received higher intensity intervention. If a parent can emerge from the process of diagnosis and early intervention with an increased sense that they can make a difference in their child's life (i.e. increased sense of efficacy), it may set the stage for meeting the long-term demands of parenting a child with autism.
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Tan-MacNeill KM, Smith IM, Johnson SA, Chorney J, Corkum P. A systematic review of online parent-implemented interventions for children with neurodevelopmental disorders. CHILDRENS HEALTH CARE 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/02739615.2021.1886934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kim M. Tan-MacNeill
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Isabel M. Smith
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- IWK Health Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Shannon A. Johnson
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Jill Chorney
- Paediatric Anaesthesia, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, New Brunswick, Canada
- Anesthesia, Pain Management, and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Nova Scotia, Halifax, Canada
| | - Penny Corkum
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Parent-mediated intervention delivered through telehealth for children with autism spectrum disorder. Hippokratia 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd014793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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46
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Brookman-Frazee L, Chlebowski C, Villodas M, Roesch S, Martinez K. Training Community Therapists to Deliver an Individualized Mental Health Intervention for Autism Spectrum Disorder: Changes in Caregiver Outcomes and Mediating Role on Child Outcomes. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2021; 60:355-366. [PMID: 32755632 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2020.07.896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examines the impact of training therapists to deliver "An Individualized Mental Health Intervention for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)" (AIM HI) for children with autism spectrum disorder on caregiver outcomes and the mediating role of changes in caregiver outcomes on child outcomes. METHOD Data were drawn from a cluster randomized trial conducted in 29 publicly funded mental health programs randomized to receive AIM HI training or usual care. Therapists were recruited from enrolled programs and child/caregiver participants enrolled from therapists' caseloads. Participants included 202 caregivers of children 5 to 13 years of age with autism spectrum disorder. Caregiver strain and sense of competence were assessed at baseline and 6 month postbaseline. Child behaviors were assessed at baseline and 6, 12, and 18 months postbaseline. Therapist delivery of evidence-based intervention strategies were assessed between baseline and 6 months. RESULTS A significant training effect was observed for caregiver sense of competence, with AIM HI caregivers reporting significantly greater improvement relative to usual care. There was no significant training effect for caregiver strain. Observer-rated therapist delivery of evidence-based interventions strategies over 6 months mediated training effects for sense of competence at 6 months. Changes in sense of competence from baseline to 6 months was associated with reduced child challenging behaviors at 6 months and mediated child outcomes at 12 and 18 months. CONCLUSION Combined with research demonstrating effectiveness of therapist AIM HI training on child outcomes, this study provides further evidence of the positive impact of training community therapists in the AIM HI intervention. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION INFORMATION Effectiveness and Implementation of a Mental Health Intervention for ASD (AIM HI); https://clinicaltrials.gov/; NCT02416323.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Brookman-Frazee
- Child and Adolescent Services Research Center, San Diego, California; University of California, San Diego; Rady Children's Hospital, San Diego, California
| | - Colby Chlebowski
- Child and Adolescent Services Research Center, San Diego, California; University of California, San Diego.
| | - Miguel Villodas
- Child and Adolescent Services Research Center, San Diego, California; San Diego State University, California
| | | | - Kassandra Martinez
- Child and Adolescent Services Research Center, San Diego, California; University of California, San Diego; San Diego State University, California
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47
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Alshahrani MS, Algashmari H. The moderating effect of financial stress and autism severity on development of depression among parents and caregivers of Autistic children in Taif, Saudi Arabia. J Family Med Prim Care 2021; 10:1227-1233. [PMID: 34041156 PMCID: PMC8140263 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_2203_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2020] [Revised: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) is a common problem in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. However, little research explored the extent of anxiety and depressive disorders in parents of children with ASD. METHOD Descriptive questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey of a sample of parents of children with ASD who attended Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Autistic Centre, Ministry of defense, Taif city. RESULTS The study included (n = 50) parents. The prevalence of mild depression was 30%, whereas the prevalence of moderately severe depression was 68%. Increased ASD severity level was associated with a significant impact on the PHQ-9 total score (level II was 1.293 times level I to have an increased PHQ-9 score, and level III was 1.530 times level I to have an increased PHQ-9 score). Economic status did not significantly alter depressive symptoms. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION ASD diagnosis in Saudi children is associated with high parental depressive prevalence. However, this result could be bidirectional. Stigma, future-related worry, and stress could mediate parental depressive symptoms. Our findings in Saudi parents of children with ASD corroborate the established association between parental depressive symptoms and ASD severity. Our results corroborated previous findings that neither parental gender nor child gender exert any substantial effect on predictability of depressive symptoms among parents of children with ASD. Comprehensive therapeutic packages for children with ASD should include treatment of emotional problems arising out of carer burden among their parents. Screening for parental emotional problems should be routine in autism treatment facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hasaan Algashmari
- Department of Family Medicine, Al-Hada Armed Forces Hospital, Taif City, Saudi Arabia
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Charman T. Editorial: One Good Thing (Sometimes) Leads to Another: Demonstrating Mechanistic Connections Between Parent and Child Outcomes in a Community Implementation Autism Trial. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2021; 60:338-339. [PMID: 33310160 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2020.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
This is an important study for several reasons and shows a positive way forward for the design, execution, and analysis of intervention trials in the autism field. Brookman-Frazee et al.1 present a novel analysis demonstrating that their community training program, An Individualized Mental Health Intervention (AIM HI), which has been shown to improve behaviors that challenge in young children with autism,2 also leads to improvements in parental sense of competence (but not caregiver strain). This is in line with a limited number of other recent studies that have addressed the same issue.3,4 The present report adds to our knowledge in at least 2 important ways; both investigating the mechanisms of how these outcomes might come about. First, the study demonstrates that implementation of the training during the period of intervention, specifically, continuity across treatment sessions and the effectiveness with which a therapist pursued teaching a caregiver skill, mediated improvements in parental sense of competence at the end of treatment. Of note, these process or fidelity implementation ratings were blind coded by naïve raters trained to reliability on video-recorded sessions, an example of the high-quality methodology valued by expert trialists. Second, the authors not only show that changes in parental sense of competence during the intervention are associated with reductions in child behaviors that challenge at the end of the treatment period, they also conducted a formal mediation analysis that further demonstrates that changes in parental sense of competence during the treatment period are related to improvements in child outcomes at 12 and 18 months, long after the intervention period itself. There have long been calls highlighting the value of such mechanistic analysis to get "maximum value" from the precious resource of intervention trials,5 but these have only rarely been taken up in the autism intervention field.6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony Charman
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom.
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Lindgren S, Wacker D, Schieltz K, Suess A, Pelzel K, Kopelman T, Lee J, Romani P, O'Brien M. A Randomized Controlled Trial of Functional Communication Training via Telehealth for Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 50:4449-4462. [PMID: 32300910 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04451-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Many children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have problem behaviors that interfere with learning and social interaction. This randomized controlled trial compared treatment with functional communication training (FCT) to "treatment as usual" for young children with ASD (n = 38, ages 21-84 months). FCT was conducted by parents with training and real-time coaching provided by behavioral consultants using telehealth. FCT treatment via telehealth achieved a mean reduction in problem behavior of 98% compared to limited behavioral improvement in children receiving "treatment as usual" during a 12-week period. Social communication and task completion also improved. For children with ASD and moderate to severe behavior problems, parent-implemented FCT using telehealth significantly reduced problem behavior while ongoing interventions typically did not.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Lindgren
- Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa College of Medicine, 100 Hawkins Drive, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA.
| | - David Wacker
- Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa College of Medicine, 100 Hawkins Drive, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Kelly Schieltz
- Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa College of Medicine, 100 Hawkins Drive, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | | | - Kelly Pelzel
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Todd Kopelman
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - John Lee
- Telehealth Behavioral Consultation Services, Sahuarita, AZ, USA
| | - Patrick Romani
- Children's Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Matthew O'Brien
- Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa College of Medicine, 100 Hawkins Drive, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
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50
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Conrad CE, Rimestad ML, Rohde JF, Petersen BH, Korfitsen CB, Tarp S, Cantio C, Lauritsen MB, Händel MN. Parent-Mediated Interventions for Children and Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:773604. [PMID: 34867556 PMCID: PMC8632873 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.773604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
There has been increasing interest in parent-mediated interventions (PMIs) for children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to examine the effect of PMIs compared to no PMI for children with ASD aged 2-17 years. The primary outcome was adaptive functioning rated by a parent or clinician. The secondary outcomes were long-term adaptive functioning rated by the parents, adverse events, core symptoms of ASD, disruptive behavior, parental well-being, quality of life of the child rated by the parents and anxiety. The MEDLINE, PsycInfo, Embase, and CINAHL databases were searched in March 2020. The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool was used to rate the individual studies, and the certainty in the evidence was evaluated using GRADE. We identified 30 relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs), including 1,934 participants. A clinically relevant effect of PMIs on parent-rated adaptive functioning was found with a low certainty of evidence [Standard mean difference (SMD): 0.28 (95% CI: -0.01, 0.57)] on Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales (VABS), whereas no clinically relevant effect was seen for clinician-rated functional level, with a very low certainty of evidence [SMD on Clinical Global Impressions (CGI)-severity scale: SMD -0.45 [95% CI: -0.87, -0.03)]. PMIs may slightly improve clinician-rated autism core symptoms [SMD: -0.35 (95% CI: -0.71, 0.02)]. Additionally, no effect of PMIs on parent-rated core symptoms of ASD, parental well-being or adverse effects was identified, all with a low certainty of evidence. There was a moderate certainty of evidence for a clinically relevant effect on disruptive behavior [SMD: 0.55 (95% Cl: 0.36, 0.74)]. The certainty in the evidence was downgraded due to serious risk of bias, lack of blinding, and serious risk of imprecision due to few participants included in meta-analyses. The present findings suggest that clinicians may consider introducing PMIs to children with ASD, but more high-quality RCTs are needed because the effects are not well-established, and the results are likely to change with future studies. The protocol for the systematic review is registered at the Danish Health Authority website (www.sst.dk).
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Engberg Conrad
- Psychiatry, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | | | - Jeanett Friis Rohde
- The Parker Institute, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, The Capital Region, Frederiksberg, Denmark.,The Danish Health Authority, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | - Simon Tarp
- The Parker Institute, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, The Capital Region, Frederiksberg, Denmark.,The Danish Health Authority, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Cathriona Cantio
- Institute of Psychology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, Region of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Marlene Briciet Lauritsen
- Psychiatry, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Mina Nicole Händel
- The Parker Institute, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, The Capital Region, Frederiksberg, Denmark.,The Danish Health Authority, Copenhagen, Denmark
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