Coping with uncertainty in everyday situations (CUES©) to address intolerance of uncertainty in autistic children: an intervention feasibility trial

Background Anxiety related to uncertainty is common in autism. Coping with Uncertainty in Everyday Situations (CUES (c)) is a parent-mediated group intervention aiming to increase autistic children's tolerance to uncertain situations. A pilot study was conducted to test its feasibility and acceptability. Methods Parents of 50 autistic children were randomised to receive CUES (c) or enhanced services as usual. Results All children met the clinical threshold for at least one anxiety disorder. Of the 26 participants randomised to CUES (c), 72% attended 4-8 sessions. Parents and therapists reported they found CUES (c) useful and acceptable. Conclusions Families were willing to be recruited and randomised, the format/content was feasible to deliver, and the outcome measures were acceptable. CUES (c) should be evaluated in a clinical and cost effectiveness randomised controlled trial.