Social Validity of Strategies to Assist Females with ASD during Gynecological Examinations

Abstract

This study aimed to identify strategies that stakeholders would deem appropriate for use during a gynecological exam for a female with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who also has limited language (LL). Females with ASD are not receiving the same gynecological care as their non-ASD peers yet may have a greater need for such care due to increased health risks. Twenty-three parents and six caregivers of a female with ASD and LL, three females with ASD/Asperger’s, and two nurses responded to an online survey about possible strategies to use with a female with ASD and LL during a routine gynecological exam. With the use of an embedded video to explain the strategies, participants were asked to choose those they identify as being effective for the successful completion of a gynecological exam. The use of visual supports via an electronic device or picture prompts, reinforcement of incremental steps, and non-contingent escape were identified as the top three strategies that would support a female with ASD and LL during a gynecological exam. Participants also offered anecdotal commentary about their fears and concerns related to this issue. The patient’s voice in the decision-making process is crucial to the buy-in of the services offered by their providers. Once patient preference is known, it is imperative that researchers use that information. Identifying strategies with a higher rate of social validity, or acceptance of treatment prior to implementation, may assist future researchers in conducting studies on the effectiveness of those strategies.