Psychosocial intervention in the family with an individual with autism spectrum disorder: A case study

Abstract

Background: Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder with onset and diagnosis during the first three years of life. Mental retardation (MR) is a varied group of conditions characterized by cognitive limitations due to organic brain dysfunction, with onset no later than 18 years of age. Assessment and Management: The case presented here is that of 16 years old, an unmarried, male, belonging to a Hindu nuclear family of lower socioeconomic status from Chandigarh presented with childhood autism with moderate mental retardation and his family was struggling with various associated psychosocial problems. Through an in-depth case study using behavioural intervention with the patient and face-to-face interviews with his family members, a psychosocial formulation was made and a plan for psychosocial intervention was carried out. As per the progress of the sessions, further associated issues were discussed. Consent was taken from the patient’s family members for future possible reporting of this case in any journal. Outcome: After the psychosocial intervention, understanding and awareness about illness and PSI was enhanced in the patient and family, they actively participated in the psychosocial intervention and made positive efforts to achieve set goals; the patient's sister restarted studies, appeared for her senior secondary examination; the family burden was reduced; the patient was successfully improved in his condition and his family took him back into their house. On follow-up, they reported improvement in his behaviour. Conclusion: The case study illustrates the nature and extent of psychosocial problems in a child with Autism with moderate mental retardation along with his family caregivers’ burden and financial issues. It also demonstrated that psychosocial intervention plays a key role in the treatment of autism.

Keywords: Children, autism, psychosocial intervention