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Developing social interaction and understanding in individuals with autism spectrum disorder: a groupwork intervention

MacKay, T., Knott, F. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5334-7206 and Dunlop, A.W. (2007) Developing social interaction and understanding in individuals with autism spectrum disorder: a groupwork intervention. Journal of Intellectual & Developmental Disability, 32 (4). pp. 279-290. ISSN 1366-8250

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To link to this item DOI: 10.1080/13668250701689280

Abstract/Summary

Background: Difficulties with social interaction and understanding lie at the heart of the communication disorder that characterises the autism spectrum. This study sought to improve social communication for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by means of a groupwork intervention focusing on social and emotional perspective-taking, conversation skills, and friendship skills. It also aimed to address some of the limitations of previous interventions, including a lack of generalisation to other settings, so as to maximise inclusion in the community. Method A group of 46 high functioning children and adolescents with ASD (38 boys, 8 girls, age range 6-16 years) were allocated to one of 6 intervention groups. Each group met over a period of 12-16 weeks for a minimum of one 1 1/2-hour weekly session aimed at promoting key areas of social interaction and understanding, supported by home-based practice. Results: Significant gains were achieved in comparison with a normative population, and individual parent ratings showed marked and sustained changes in the key areas targeted in the group sessions. Conclusion: Social communication in children and adolescents with ASD can be enhanced through the use of a groupwork intervention addressing social interaction and understanding.

Item Type:Article
Refereed:Yes
Divisions:Interdisciplinary centres and themes > ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorders) Research Network
Life Sciences > School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences
ID Code:13954
Uncontrolled Keywords:autism spectrum disorder, social interaction, communication, group intervention , HIGH-FUNCTIONING CHILDREN, SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL TREATMENT, ASPERGER-SYNDROME, YOUNG-CHILDREN, SKILLS GROUP, OUTCOMES, ADOLESCENTS, PROGRAM, ADULTS, BOYS

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