Mindfulness for Children and Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Their Caregivers: A Meta-analysis.
Study Goal
The researchers aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of mindfulness-based therapies in reducing psychological distress and enhancing wellbeing for families living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Results Summary
Mindfulness interventions led to significant gains in subjective wellbeing for caregivers, children, and adults with ASD immediately post-intervention, with effects maintained at 3-month follow-up. However, more controlled research is needed to determine precise efficacy for affected families and subgroups.
Population
Families living with ASD (233 children and adults with ASD and 241 caregivers).
Effective Dosage
Not available
Duration
Not specified
Interactions
None mentioned
| Intervention | Direction | Endpoint | Population | Dosage | Impact | Claim # |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
mindfulness | increase | subjective wellbeing | caregivers, children and adults with ASD | - | reported significant gains | #1 |
mindfulness | no change | intervention effects | - | at 3-month follow-up | effects were maintained | #2 |
Mindfulness-based therapies are rising in popularity. However, evidence for their effectiveness in reducing psychological distress and enhancing wellbeing for families living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is limited. A systematic search identified 10 independent studies, involving a pooled sample of 233 children and adults with ASD and 241 caregivers. Hedges' g effect sizes with associated 95% confidence intervals, in addition to heterogeneity, were calculated using a random-effects model. Caregivers, children and adults who received mindfulness all reported significant gains in subjective wellbeing immediately post-intervention. Available data indicated intervention effects were maintained at 3-month follow-up. Mindfulness presents a promising intervention strategy in ASD populations, however more controlled research is required to determine its precise efficacy for affected families and subgroups.