Exploring Feelings for Young Children with High-Functioning Autism or Asperger's Disorder

Young children with autism have particular difficulty in understanding and controlling their emotions, especially when those emotions are negative. This practical manual for professionals provides a set of simple strategies to help children with high-functioning autism or Asperger's syndrome who suffer from mood difficulties to decrease negative feelings and increase positive feelings in daily life.

Using a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach, The Stress and Anger Management Program (STAMP) is designed specifically for young children in their pre-school and early school years. The book outlines a 9-session group program using methods, games and activities that are developmentally appropriate. Treatment components include affective education, cognitive restructuring, social and group stories, and the emotional toolbox. The group therapy can be tailored for individual therapy when needed. A parental component is also included to support practice at home and promote generalization outside of the classroom or therapy setting.

This is a dynamic and effective resource for professionals working with young children with autism spectrum disorders including teachers, guidance counselors, psychologists, speech therapists, behavioral therapists, occupational therapists, and social workers.

About the Authors

Angela Scarpa, PhD, is an associate professor of psychology at Virginia Tech, a licensed clinical psychologist, and Founder and Co-Director of the Virginia Tech Autism Clinic. Before joining the Virginia Tech faculty, she held faculty positions at Eastern Washington University and the University of Georgia. She conducts research and treatment related to the mental health of children, adolescents, and young adults, with a focus on autism spectrum disorders, as well as disruptive behaviour problems. She has published widely in academic journals, presents at scientific and community meetings, and chairs the New River Valley Autism Action Group.

Anthony Wells, PhD, is an adjunct professor at Virginia Western Community College, and an outpatient clinician based in Roanoke, Virginia. He received his PhD in Psychology from Virginia Tech in 2010. His work focussed on the role of social support in emotion regulation. During his time at Virginia Tech, he served as one of the first therapists for the STAMP program and was closely involved in its development.

Tony Attwood, PhD, is a clinical psychologist from Brisbane, Australia, with over 30 years of experience with individuals with autism spectrum disorders. He is currently adjunct Associate Professor at Griffith University in Queensland. He is the best-selling author of The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome, Asperger's Syndrome: A Guide for Parents and Professionals, and the Exploring Feelings program manuals.