"They Showed Me How to Improve My Drawings and That Made Me Happy": A Realist Evaluation of a Digital Arts Multimedia Program for Autistic Adolescents.
Elinda Ai Lim Lee, Ben Milbourn, Bahareh Afsharnejad, Chiara Gizzi, Aiden Marinovich, Ashleigh Milne, Lara Zimmerman, Sonya Girdler
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
The use of strengths-based arts programs for autistic adolescents is not effectively described within current literature and is an emerging area of practice. This study explores the outcomes and essential components underpinning a digital arts multimedia program delivered to autistic adolescents. A realist evaluation framework was used to describe the impact and essential components of a strengths-based digital arts multimedia program for autistic adolescents. Twenty-eight autistic adolescents and their parents were recruited and participated in the program. Data were collected via ethnographic methods including participant observations and interviews. Data were analysed deductively using a context-mechanism-outcome thematic analysis framework. Findings identified needs and preferences, individuality, art mentor support and shared interests as components significantly influencing the effectiveness of the strengths-based digital arts program. Results highlighted the importance of understanding the personal factors of autistic adolescents and the mechanisms within the program in influencing the outcomes for participants. This study offers a preliminary framework for future programs, highlighting key components of strengths-based digital arts programs.
期刊介绍：
The Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders seeks to advance theoretical and applied research as well as examine and evaluate clinical diagnoses and treatments for autism and related disabilities. JADD encourages research submissions on the causes of ASDs and related disorders, including genetic, immunological, and environmental factors; diagnosis and assessment tools (e.g., for early detection as well as behavioral and communications characteristics); and prevention and treatment options. Sample topics include: Social responsiveness in young children with autism Advances in diagnosing and reporting autism Omega-3 fatty acids to treat autism symptoms Parental and child adherence to behavioral and medical treatments for autism Increasing independent task completion by students with autism spectrum disorder Does laughter differ in children with autism? Predicting ASD diagnosis and social impairment in younger siblings of children with autism The effects of psychotropic and nonpsychotropic medication with adolescents and adults with ASD Increasing independence for individuals with ASDs Group interventions to promote social skills in school-aged children with ASDs Standard diagnostic measures for ASDs Substance abuse in adults with autism Differentiating between ADHD and autism symptoms Social competence and social skills training and interventions for children with ASDs Therapeutic horseback riding and social functioning in children with autism Authors and readers of the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders include sch olars, researchers, professionals, policy makers, and graduate students from a broad range of cross-disciplines, including developmental, clinical child, and school psychology; pediatrics; psychiatry; education; social work and counseling; speech, communication, and physical therapy; medicine and neuroscience; and public health.
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