Journal of International Medical Research (Jan 2020)

Effects of a language education intervention on social participation among emerging adults with autism

  • Josephine Akabogu,
  • Amuche Nnamani,
  • Mkpoikanke Sunday Otu,
  • Annah C. Uloh-Bethels,
  • Evelyn Ukoha,
  • Olayinka M. Iyekekpolor,
  • Jacinta Chinwe Omile,
  • Maureen Nnenna Obiezu,
  • Anastasia E. Dike,
  • Chioma Vivian Ike

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1177/0300060519839510
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 48

Abstract

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Objective This study aimed to examine the effects of a language education intervention (LEI) on social participation among emerging adults with autism. Methods This randomized clinical trial involved 86 emerging adults who had low social participation, as assessed by the Social Participation Questionnaire. Participants completed an LEI comprising cognitive, adaptive and rational thinking training to improve their ability to take part in social events. Repeated measures analysis of variance was used to analyse the data. Results The results indicated a significant increase in social participation among emerging adults who were exposed to the LEI compared with their counterparts in a wait list control group. Conclusion Language and speech institutions and hospitals should adopt the LEI procedures discussed in this research to help their autistic patients increase their participation in social activities.