Published January 3, 2024 | Version v1
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Evaluation of the Zurich Social Competence Training for Adolescents and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Authors/Creators

  • 1. Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie und Psychotherapie Zürich
  • 2. Translational Neuromodeling Unit, Universität Zürich und ETH Zürich
  • 3. Psychiatrische Universitätsklinik Zürich

Description

This study aims to examine the effectiveness of the Zurcher Social Competence Training for adolescents and young adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), known as KOMPASS. The dataset includes all measurements used to evaluate both components of KOMPASS: the basic and advanced training, outlined in two separate manuscripts.

KOMPASS-B

Increased social demands during adolescence and early adulthood pose specific challenges for individuals with ASD. Targeted group-based social competence trainings have emerged as the most effective therapeutic interventions for children and adolescents with ASD. In the first work, we introduce the basic training of KOMPASS (KOMPASS-B). 

In this longitudinal study, we assessed 108 participants using various reports and tasks, with follow-up data collected a year post-intervention. Additionally, we analyzed pre- and post-data from 35 individuals who completed KOMPASS-B training elsewhere.

Our findings showed a significant decrease in autistic symptoms and an increase in social competences, sustained even a year after training. General psychiatric symptoms also improved post-intervention. Remarkably, participants from external centers showed similar improvements to those at our center, highlighting the effectiveness of the program. Gender did not affect results. Both participants and caregivers expressed satisfaction with the training.

Overall, KOMPASS-B is highly effective, addressing prior study limitations by utilizing a large sample, including a control group, conducting one-year follow-ups, and comprehensive skill assessments. It offers a transparent methodological description but lacks a randomized controlled trial design as a limitation.

KOMPASS-F

The second study evaluates an advanced training phase aimed at older adolescents and young adults with ASD, addressing crucial social challenges they encounter during this developmental stage.

Using a quasi-randomized design, we assessed 52 individuals who received the advanced training (intervention group) and 62 who didn't after completing the basic training (control group). Data collection involved participant, parent, and teacher questionnaires, along with a computerized task.

Results showed substantial improvements in social competences for the intervention group, seen in enhanced social skills, reduced autistic symptoms, and better overall health. A one-year follow-up confirmed the sustained improvements. Participants and parents highly praised the program.

These findings emphasize the efficacy of a two-stage social competence training for ASD individuals, highlighting lasting improvements during adolescence and young adulthood. It underscores the need for comprehensive interventions tailored to their unique social challenges. Further research should explore the program's effects on social relationships and occupational status later in life.

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