Social Skills Training for Student With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Effects of Training and Social Validity(Practical Researches)

Abstract

In the present study, 2 students with autism spectrum disorder were given social skills training. The behavioral assessment set the context of the problem behavior in the training center, which also was where the training was conducted. One participant (Cl; fifth grade boy) showed a high frequency of problem behavior in social situations (e.g., interfering with other children's play). The other participant (C2; seventh grade boy) , had only brief social interactions in conversations (e.g., talk was one-sided). The target behavior was identified for each child based on the results of the behavioral assessment. Cl was trained to confirm rules, and C2, in the skill of supportive responses. After the social skills training Cl's problem behavior decreased, and C2's social interactions improved. The discussion considered an evaluation of social validity in relation to the effectiveness of the training and practical challenges for the future.