Which intervention is most appropriate for a child with ASD who becomes highly agitated in group settings?

The most appropriate intervention for a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) who experiences high agitation in group settings is functional communication therapy. This approach focuses on enhancing a child's ability to communicate their needs and feelings effectively. By improving communication skills, the child may be better able to express themselves, reducing frustration and agitation that can arise from misunderstandings or unmet needs in social situations.

Functional communication therapy often uses strategies like modeling, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), or visual supports to help the child articulate their emotions and desires. This can be particularly beneficial in a group setting, where social interactions can become overwhelming, leading to agitation. When children feel they can communicate their needs more effectively, they may experience less anxiety and frustration, helping to manage their emotional responses during group activities.

The other options, while valuable in different contexts, may not address the immediate issue of agitation as directly as functional communication therapy does. For example, Floor Time therapy focuses on emotional development and engaging with a child in a playful manner, which may not directly help with communication frustrations. Cognitive behavioral therapy addresses thinking patterns but may not be suitable for all children with ASD, especially younger ones who might struggle with abstract concepts. Social Thinking therapy helps children understand social norms and cues but may