Testing the situationally modified social rank theory on friendship quality in male youth with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder.

Abstract

This study examined the impact of a situationally modified social rank (SMSR) based intervention on friendship quality of boys with high-functioning autistic spectrum disorders (HFASDs). Six male youth ages 10-14 years with HFASDs and their mothers, and six typically developing age/gender matched peers participated. Youth with HFASDs were trained to use a popular videogame for 3-6 weeks. After the training period, they taught peers without HFASDs to play the game. All participants completed pre- and post-intervention interviews that addressed social situations and intervention outcomes. Youth also completed friendship questionnaires pre- and post-intervention. The findings suggest that the SMSR based intervention improved some components of friendship quality, peer recognition through physical competence, and social expectations among participants.