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Differences of cognitive‑behavioural therapy in treatment of Asperger’s syndrome

Monika Gajdzik1, Anita Bryńska2

Affiliacja i adres do korespondencji
PSYCHIATR. PSYCHOL. KLIN. 2012, 12 (1), p. 52-56
Streszczenie

Autism spectrum disorder is a group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by communication and social impairments, and repetitive patterns of behaviours. In Asperger’s syndrome (AS) in addition to difficulties related to social functioning, observed language abnormalities include: pragmatics (the application of language in social context), semantics (the meaning of what is being said) and prosody (rhythm, intonation and modulation of speech). Cognitive dysfunctions underlying the symptoms, especially in the “theory of mind”, make it easier to understand the nature of specific problems and deficits. They determine the specificity of therapeutic work with patients with AS, but also exhibit its difficulties, although on the other hand they will constitute one of the main goals of the treatment effects. The cognitive and behavioural therapy is aimed towards the modification of dysfunctional thinking style resulting from cognitive distortions, false beliefs or cognitive deficits. In persons with Asperger’s syndrome there is a need for modification and adjustment of therapeutic techniques to the specific cognitive profile of this group of patients. The main scope of CBT intervention in AS includes deficits in social relations, recognizing emotions and their consequences. Negative emotions experienced as a result of the lack of understanding of interactions within the environment and the lack of being understood often manifest themselves in the form of impulsive and aggressive behaviours. Therapeutic decisions are also influenced by the presence of additional diagnoses, such as ADHD, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, conduct disorders or obsessive‑compulsive disorders.

Słowa kluczowe
Asperger’s syndrome, psychotherapy, cognitive‑behavioural therapy, social skills, emotional education