Program

Special Education M.A.

Number of Pages

65

Year Approved

2023

First Advisor

Larson, Susan

Second Reader

Michael Mignard

Abstract

This thesis studies interventions to support the mental health of students with autism spectrum disorder. According to Mazefsky (2019), more than 70% of youth with ASD have mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, mental illness can impact an individual’s thoughts, mood, behavior, daily functioning, and ability to relate to others. Schools must establish effective treatment measures that are efficient and cost-effective. The literature indicated several school-based interventions with promising evidence to reduce anxiety for ASD students. Mindfulness practices, physical fitness programs, school-based cognitive behavior therapy strategies, technology, and environmental accommodations all produced promising outcomes in reducing anxiety levels. School-based interventions increase accessibility to the curriculum and positively impact the generalization of learned skills.

Degree Name

Special Education M.A.

Document Type

Masterʼs thesis

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