Date of Paper
5-2013
Type of Paper
Clinical research paper
Degree Name
Master of Social Work (M.S.W.)
Department
Social Work
First Advisor
Michael G. Chovanec
Department/School
Social Work
Abstract
This research paper explores how components of Expressed Emotion (Critical Comments, Emotional Over-involvement, Warmth) experienced in the classroom are influencing student behavior and symptoms for students with Autism. Qualitative data was collected from one school social worker. This study confirms and builds upon previous research on Critical Comments and Warmth. Critical comments, especially when delivered by a staff member poorly, increased maladaptive behavior and decreased social interaction and communication. Warmth inversely decreased maladaptive behaviors while increasing communication and social interaction. Emotional Over-involvement was dependent upon the individual student and neither confirms or rejects previous research. Each member of the classroom group impacted how these Expressed Emotion components were expressed. Staff that were well educated and/or experienced in working with students with Autism were described as displaying high levels of Warmth. Study limitations and recommendations for future research are also discussed.
Recommended Citation
Flaharty, Mackenzie R.. (2013). Assessing Expressed Emotion Influences on Autistic Symptoms/Behaviors: A School Social Worker Perspective. Retrieved from Sophia, the St. Catherine University repository website: https://sophia.stkate.edu/msw_papers/176