Digital Commons @ SPU

Family attachment narrative therapy: Treatment of anxiety in youth with autism spectrum disorder

This study examines the efficacy of Family Attachment Narrative Therapy (FANT) for the treatment of anxiety disorders in children ages 5 through 12 who have a level 1 or 2 autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis. Through a therapeutic treatment process with the identified patient (IP) and their family, co-creating a positive attachment narrative will decrease anxiety not only in the diagnosed child but in the family system as well. A sample of 40 youth and their families will be randomly selected; 20 of which will receive the treatments and 20 of which will be in a control group. The interventions will take place in bi-weekly, 50-minute sessions: one for the IP only, and one for the IP with their family. The treatments will take place over the course of six months. Measurements will combine quantitative and qualitative methods in assessing IP anxiety levels, parent stress, and family relational satisfaction. Follow-up testing will take place one year after termination of treatment.