Mindfulness and Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

The use of mindfulness interventions for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a relatively new research area, which has followed a more established body of research investigating the efficacy of mindfulness interventions for parents of children with ASD. Given the chronic stress levels experienced by parents and high anxiety and stress levels in individuals with ASD, such research is well justified. The utility of mindfulness in clinical practice for individuals with ASD and their parents will be discussed. This chapter aims to evaluate the research literature, identify important limitations, and propose crucial directions for future research. Acknowledgment of the impact of attitudes, social bias, and a generational shift that may be accelerating the salience of mindfulness is discussed. The author aims to emphasize the importance of high-quality future research with robust methodological designs to clearly identify the potential role for mindfulness in this population. Despite having a solid foundation of preliminary findings, it is important that researchers refine current procedures and evaluation of mindfulness interventions for individuals with ASD and their parents while carefully selecting measures that are not solely self-report or parent report.

A structured group intervention (TüTASS) with focus on self-perception and mindfulness for children with autism spectrum disorder, ASD. A pilot study

“…Similar findings are shown by Philipsen et al [ 59 ], Külz et al [ 60 ] and Hülle [ 61 ]. Additionally, Cachia’s [ 43 ] preliminary findings suggest that mindfulness exercises lead to a reduction of stress and result in positive changes in children with ASD as well as in their parents.…”

“…There is also evidence that mindfulness exercises could be beneficial to patients with ASD (e.g. [ 7 , 43 ]. However, further research on the efficiency and identification of the potential role of self-perception and mindfulness measures for this specific population is needed [ 7 , 43 , 44 ].…”

“…[ 7 , 43 ]. However, further research on the efficiency and identification of the potential role of self-perception and mindfulness measures for this specific population is needed [ 7 , 43 , 44 ].…”

Mindfulness Training for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Cognitive Flexibility

“…In addition to these benefits for general populations, evidence has also proved that mindfulness training is a practical, ecological and sustainable intervention for not only individuals with ASD but also their families. Cachia suggests that future research should aim to gain a further comprehensive understanding of the effectiveness of mindfulness meditation [11]. This includes exploring its ability to enhance cognitive flexibility and the specific circumstances and populations for which it is most effective.…”