SOCIAL SKILL DEFECITS IN CHILDREN WITH AUTISM

Social skill is defined as skills we use every day to interact and communicate with others that include verbal communication, gestures, facial expression and body language etc. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by social difficulties that can have a negative impact on an individual’s psychological and social wellbeing.

Impaired social interaction and communication is the criteria for the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD;This reflects the combined nature of social interaction and communication difficulties in ASD). Social skills can be thought of as the behaviors involved in initiating and maintaining interpersonal relationships and are linked to peer-acceptance, psychological wellbeing and academic achievement. There is variation in the degree to which individuals with ASD are motivated to interact with peers, with some individuals desiring social interaction, but lacking the skills to negotiate social situations, while others show minimal interest in social interactions.

 

The social interaction and communication difficulties of individuals with ASD  indicates difficulties with recognizing and discriminating facial emotional expressions, using eye gaze to scan social information and engaging in joint attention. These skills are considered important for the interpretation of the intentions of others, putting individuals with ASD at a disadvantage during social interactions People with ASD can also have difficulties identifying appropriate greetings and understanding humor. Social difficulties predict a lower number of peer relationships and reduced participation in recreational activities, as well as reduced ability to form romantic relationships, these factors can lead to a significant reduction in psychological well-being. These are the main areas of social skill were ASD children face difficulties.

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