'They're supposed to help people like me sort of fit into society': adolescent and parental perspectives following participation in a social thinking program

Morgan, Aaron (2016) 'They're supposed to help people like me sort of fit into society': adolescent and parental perspectives following participation in a social thinking program. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

Research has supported group based social skills interventions in improving the social skills of individuals with ASD. This study considered the perspectives of parents and their adolescent children who attended a Social Thinking group offered by the Autism Society of Newfoundland and Labrador. The purpose of the research study was to determine if the group was beneficial from the perspectives of adolescent participants in the program, and their parents. Qualitative data revealed a number of themes, including ‘Friendships / Fitting in’, ‘Social Opportunities’, ‘Social Gains’, ‘Self-Awareness’, ‘Program Expansion’, ‘Generalization’, ‘Past Involvement’, and ‘Program Characteristics and Limitations’. The themes revealed the benefits and weaknesses from the perspectives of the participants. More studies considering the perspectives of those availing of Social Thinking groups, and like social interventions, are required so that continued development and delivery of these services meet the needs and expectations of parents and individuals diagnosed with ASD / HFA.

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