Changing the mindset of children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders

Abstract

In our therapeutic work with children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), a major goal is to change the negative, self-defeating mindset that directs their lives. The concept of mindsets has become an increasingly prominent area of study, especially with the emergence of the field of positive psychology. As examples, Carol Dweck authored a book titled Mindset (2006) in which she distinguished between a fixed and a growth outlook; the research and writings of Martin Seligman and his colleagues about learned helplessness and learned optimism as well as resilience (Reivich and Shatte, The resilience factor: 7 keys to finding your inner strength and overcoming life's hurdles, 2002; Seligman, Learned optimism: How to change your mind and your life, 1990) have roots in attribution theory, which is basically a theory about mindsets, examining how we understand the reasons for our successes and setbacks (Weiner, Achievement motivation and attribution theory, 1974).