Anxiety and Social Skills Deficit levels among Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Nairobi, Kenya.

Abstract

This paper examines the severity level of anxiety and social skills deficits among children living with Autism between two schools in Nairobi County. Parents and teachers of 40 children and adolescents aged between 5-21 years old were used to conducting the assessment. Social skills deficits (SRS-2) and anxiety (CASI) questionnaires were used in data collection. The quasi-experimental study then involved a follow-up six months after data collection before conducting a statistical analysis. The results depict a significant decline in social skills represented by p=0.006 (95% C.I 4.97, 27.8). However, anxiety treatment was found to be not substantial even though the p-value = 0.002 was less than the significant level. The study concluded that the effect of ASD is real and can be treated. It requires being addressed as early as possible in the affected persons to allow them to achieve their full potential in life. The results provide essential insights into ASD and mental health. This paper adds to knowledge on ASD and anxiety and social skills and common comorbid disorders. The study recommended that the effect of ASD is real and can be treated. It requires being addressed as early as possible in the affected persons to allow them to achieve their full potential in life. The results provide essential insights into ASD and mental health.