Social And Emotional Skills and Mental Health in Autistic Children

Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder are at high risk of having a mental health disorder such as anxiety or depression. Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is the way in which we are aware of and can manage our own emotions. Factors like SEL skills may have the ability to impact one’s mental health. This study aims to look at how SEL skills may predict levels of anxiety and depression in autistic children and youth. This research will provide rich data to assist schools and communities in understanding and creating environments to support mental health. The outcome of this research will be a master’s thesis, as well as presentations to the professional community at conferences.

Parents/caregivers of children, aged 9-15 who have a medical diagnosis or an educational classification of ASD, without an Intellectual Disability (ID). Parents/caregivers will be recruited throughout North America, and must be able to understand English.

Participants will be asked to complete in an online anonymous survey, which will take around 17-20 minutes. The survey will includes questions about your child’s background, ASD traits, anxiety and depression symptoms, and social and emotional characteristics. This survey is to be completed in one sitting.

This research will provide rich data to assist schools and communities in understanding and creating environments to support mental health.