Date of Award
Spring 4-27-2022
Document Type
Thesis (699 registration)
Degree Name
Master of Science in Counseling
Department
Graduate Studies
Committee Chair
Aaron Suomala Folkerds
Keywords
Autism, Autism Spectrum Disorder
Abstract
Abstract
This qualitative content analysis (QCA) examined three American Counseling Association (ACA) journals and how Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is covered in them: Journal of Counseling Development (JCD), Journal of Multicultural Counseling Development (JMCD), and Counselor Education and Supervision (CES). Within the three listed journals, there were a total of 4,749 articles published from the years 1986 to 2021, with a total of 6 articles found related to ASD. Throughout the QCA process, four themes were established: Diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder, Considerations for Counseling Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Treatment for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Neurofeedback in Counseling. This research study shows that although the prevalence of ASD is increasing, the research is not. In addition to an increasing rate of ASD, there is a high comorbid rate with mental health diagnosis and ASD, which often require counseling. With the different dynamics and characteristics of ASD, counselors need to be trained appropriately to ensure competency in this area. This meaning, there a significant lack of research done on the topic of ASD in the counseling journals, and it is recommended that more research is completed.
Keywords: Autism Spectrum Disorder, Autism, Asperger’s
Recommended Citation
Weller, Danielle, "Autism: A Qualitative Content Analysis of Counseling Journals, 1986-2021" (2022). Dissertations, Theses, and Projects. 656.
https://red.mnstate.edu/thesis/656