Group social skills instruction for adolescents with high-functioning autism spectrum disorders. Focus on Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities

Given the increased recognition of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and the chronic and pervasive nature of associated deficits, there is a pressing need for effective treatments. The feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a structured, group social skills training program for high-functioning youth with ASD was examined in this study. Fifteen participants (14 boys and 1 girl; age M = 12.55 years ± 1 year) completed a 16-week outpatient group-based intervention. The structured treatment was acceptable to families based on session attendance (89%) and postgroup satisfaction ratings. Treatment integrity was acceptable. Nine participants demonstrated significant improvement based on reliable change indices. Gains were not, however, uniform across school and home, nor were they consistently maintained following treatment