Autistic Adults' Experiences of Cognitive-Behavioural Group Therapy for Social Anxiety: Relational Experiences of Participation
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| Title: | Autistic Adults' Experiences of Cognitive-Behavioural Group Therapy for Social Anxiety: Relational Experiences of Participation |
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| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Bruna B. Roisenberg (ORCID |
| Source: | Autism: The International Journal of Research and Practice. 2026 30(1):197-212. |
| Availability: | SAGE Publications. 2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320. Tel: 800-818-7243; Tel: 805-499-9774; Fax: 800-583-2665; e-mail: journals@sagepub.com; Web site: https://sagepub.com |
| Peer Reviewed: | Y |
| Page Count: | 16 |
| Publication Date: | 2026 |
| Document Type: | Journal Articles Reports - Research |
| Descriptors: | Autism Spectrum Disorders, Adults, Cognitive Restructuring, Behavior Modification, Group Therapy, Anxiety, Program Effectiveness, Peer Relationship, Self Esteem, Group Dynamics, Mental Health, Interpersonal Competence, Barriers |
| Assessment and Survey Identifiers: | Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule |
| DOI: | 10.1177/13623613251377930 |
| ISSN: | 1362-3613 1461-7005 |
| Abstract: | Autistic adults often report high levels of social anxiety and significant life impacts from this anxiety on well-being and functioning. Although cognitive-behavioural therapy in group settings has been adapted for autistic populations, there is a paucity of research exploring how autistic individuals experience CBT interventions. This qualitative study investigated autistic adults' experiences of a modified cognitive-behavioural therapy group programme for social anxiety. Twenty-seven autistic participants were recruited through clinical services and community outreach. Following the intervention, participants completed semi-structured individual interviews about their experience of the programme. Participants reported both therapeutic benefits and challenges following their participation. Themes included reflections on group dynamics, mental health impacts, social functioning and daily life applications of strategies. Peer connection emerged as a core facilitator of engagement, while structured strategies were credited with bolstering social confidence and self-awareness. However, challenges, such as sensory sensitivities, the role of previous therapeutic experiences and difficulties applying strategies beyond the therapy context, were also highlighted. |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Entry Date: | 2026 |
| Accession Number: | EJ1494102 |
| Database: | ERIC |
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| Abstract: | Autistic adults often report high levels of social anxiety and significant life impacts from this anxiety on well-being and functioning. Although cognitive-behavioural therapy in group settings has been adapted for autistic populations, there is a paucity of research exploring how autistic individuals experience CBT interventions. This qualitative study investigated autistic adults' experiences of a modified cognitive-behavioural therapy group programme for social anxiety. Twenty-seven autistic participants were recruited through clinical services and community outreach. Following the intervention, participants completed semi-structured individual interviews about their experience of the programme. Participants reported both therapeutic benefits and challenges following their participation. Themes included reflections on group dynamics, mental health impacts, social functioning and daily life applications of strategies. Peer connection emerged as a core facilitator of engagement, while structured strategies were credited with bolstering social confidence and self-awareness. However, challenges, such as sensory sensitivities, the role of previous therapeutic experiences and difficulties applying strategies beyond the therapy context, were also highlighted. |
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| ISSN: | 1362-3613 1461-7005 |
| DOI: | 10.1177/13623613251377930 |
