Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Techniques for Treating Verbal Impairments in Children Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder - A Review

Abstract

This paper aims to provide an overview of current research in cognitive behavioural interventions which address verbal impairment in children with autism. The studies are evaluated based on methodological quality and the validity of the data collected. Studies examining behavioural interventions for children with autism were selected from a number of databases, namely Ovid, PsychINFO, and Embase. Multiple filtration rounds were conducted to ensure that papers met the inclusion criteria, followed the DSM IV autism definition, and met the methodological quality standards. A CONSORT style observational longitudinal checklist was used to evaluate the methodological quality of the studies. Criteria pertaining to study designs were more commonly addressed than those focusing on internal validity. Analysis of literature subsequent to the year 2000 demonstrated an emergence of behavioural therapies focused on remediating verbal impairment in children diagnosed with autism. Common limitations amongst all reviewed papers were discussed in terms of impact on validity and reliability. Finally, the discussion consolidated the future directives noted in all papers to discuss trajectories for further research. The chosen literature often neglected to include essential quantitative information that affected their validity. Inclusion of control groups and appropriate sample sizes should be investigated, and future directions of this research should include the use of a diverse sample that is representative of different ethnic backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses.