ASC in mainstream education: Social difficulties

Question 1

What’s social learning in Autism like?

Answer 1

Learning a second language
may be rude or socially inappropriate (can affect other children)

may struggle with reciprocity

difficulties joining group play

difficulties distinguishing good natured teasing from malice

Question 2

Friendships

Answer 2

Those with ACS are doubled deprived

have an inborn difficulty socialising yet best way to learning how is to interact with others

Question 3

What do ASC children experience with friends?

Answer 3

less acceptance
less companionship
less reciprocity
more time alone

Question 4

Bullying

Answer 4

due to problems with ToM might not report bullying
- may not know its happening or may not know teacher doesn’t know

anxiety, anger, behaviour problems all predict bullying
social vulnerability is biggest predictor

those who are bullied are 11x more likely to have MH problems

Question 5

Humphrey and Symes (2010)

Answer 5

ASC students should be assigned a confidante who have experience and knowledge with ASC

Question 6

Sogsasti (2010) - how can schools help with social inclusion?

Answer 6

Tiered interventions
- whole school - to promote prosocial behaviours

• classes/small groups - integrated play - training peers to help

Question 7

Barrett and Randall, 2005

Answer 7

Circle of friends approach to avoid ASC children being socially isolated

Question 8

Jones (2007)

Answer 8

involving peers is a positive thing

‘it feels like i did something good’

Question 9

what to be aware of for ASC students

Answer 9

the autistic culture

• well structured and predictable
• involve activities at home and school
• opportunities for learning need to be generalised