Feasibility and Preliminary Effects of a Stress Management Intervention (‘Prikkelbalansgroep’) in Young Adults with Autism Symptoms

Abstract

Background: The existing intervention options for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have yielded questionable results. Altrecht has introduced a new intervention, the ‘Prikkelbalansgroep’, which focuses on reducing stress and overstimulation and increasing the use of coping strategies in young adults with autism symptoms. Research shows potential for the used elements within this intervention. Aim: This study examines whether the ‘Prikkelbalansgroep’ reduces stress and overstimulation and increases the use of coping strategies in young adults. Additionally, this study explores the interventions’ feasibility according to experts, patients, and therapists. The findings aim to contribute to the development and refinement of the intervention. Method: Two female participants, both 22 years old (M = 22.69, SD = .16), exhibiting autism symptoms, completed various questionnaires to examine preliminary effects. Using effect sizes pre- and post measurements have been compared. Additionally, 11 experts, 44 therapists, and 28 patients completed questionnaires to determine feasibility. SPSS was used to analyze and cluster their responses. Results: The pilot study demonstrated that the two young adults report increased stress (d = -1.34) and overstimulation (d = .04 – -.80). Moreover, they reported using more coping strategies (d = -0.65). Both experts, patients, and therapists indicated that the intervention is feasible, but provided several suggestions for improvement. Conclusion: This study presents the first examination of the feasibility and preliminary effects of the ‘Prikkelbalansgroep’. However, due to the severely small sample size, future research should include a larger sample size to draw conclusions regarding effectiveness. The inclusion of expert opinions, patient and therapist feasibility, and preliminary effectiveness measures provide valuable insights into the intervention’s potential and areas of improvement, making it more adapted to its users.