Social Skills and Autistic Spectrum Disorders

Lynn Plimley - Autism Cymru
Maggie Bowen - Autism Cymru

Other Titles in:
Autistic Spectrum Disorders | Special & Inclusive Education

January 2007 | 96 pages | SAGE Publications Ltd

`I cannot recommend this book highly enough. It will be a welcome resource and the generator of much fruitful discussion' - Good Autism Practice

`The highly readable, accessible writing style and visually clear presentation allow the reader to dip in frequently to build up knowledge by accretion...This is an excellent book, ideal for those both new to working with people with ASD and also more experienced practitioners' - Special magazine

Individuals with autistic spectrum disorders (ASDs) have difficulty in communicating and socializing. They perceive the world in a very different way to most people, and often find the behaviour of those around them confusing and unfair.

This book examines the concerns around inappropriate social behaviour that those living and working with children and adults face on a day-to-day basis. It discusses preventative measures and intervention strategies, and uses real-life case studies to illustrate these.

Issues covered include:

" an overview of what difficulties might be encountered at different stages in life

" strategies that can be used to alleviate the problems

" how to recognize triggers and create stress-free environments

" hints and tips for those living and working with individuals with ASDs.

1. The Impact of an Inabilty to Interact and Communicate socially- the Triad of Impairments, causation and manifestation of inappropriate behaviour.

2. Ages and Stages- an overview of what issues might be encountered at different stages in the life cycle

3. Overview of Current Research – what strategies have been used to alleviate the problems

4. Analysing Behaviour- what is needed and what can be discarded – how to prioritise- and tackle the real issues, behaviours that cause offence but no physical harm

5. Avoidance Tactics for Anti-Social Behaviour- recognising triggers, creating the stress-free environment, using the right language, case studies of avoidable anti-social behaviours

6. Positive Role Models- Social support groups, using role play, PSHE, giving individuals with ASD a role and a responsibility

7. Preventing Criminal Behaviour- the extent of the problem, the role of the Youth Justice System (assessment, procedures, partnership with schools), preventative measures at school and at home

8. Keeping a Record- using self reports, personal portfolios monitoring behaviour, emphasising strengths, working with outside agencies, careers service and employers to promote a positive image

9. Realistic Expectations- seeing the behaviour and the issue in the context of ASD, getting the balance right, avoiding breakdown, the home environment, the school environment, out and about in society.

10. How to Help- hints and tips for those living and working with individuals with ASD

I am deeply dissappointed that this book seems to limit its focus to higher education or younger. Many Adults on the autistic spectrum are diagnosed in their thirties and so may be married or have families of their own. When this book is updated please address this left out group who work, deal with families and children as well as study.

Mrs Anne Fenech

Health Sciences, Southampton University

May 20, 2010

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