Life Construction Ahead
Without the ability to make inferences about the behavior and mental states of others (a concept called social cognition or theory of mind), individuals with ASDs are at-risk for behavior that other people interpret as inconsiderate or rude. We have now come to understand, though, that these actions are not the result of rudeness or inadequate parenting. Rather, they are part and parcel of the developmental challenges of ASDs.
Social cognition does not emerge automatically from social skills training. Most individuals with ASDs need explicit instruction to understand their own minds as well as those of others, in addition to training regarding what to do (or not do) in specific situations. Without this understanding, social skills practiced in instructional settings may not generalize. In other words, although the person with an ASD “knows” what to do, he or she may not recognize the clues that signal when to apply those skills in a given situation. To read this entire article Subscribe »
Feature Articles
An Interview with Lorna Wing, M.D.
By Diane Twachtman-Cullen, Ph.D., CCC-SLP
In part two of this two-part interview, Dr. Wing shares her wisdom and insights. To read this entire interview Subscribe »
By Simon Baron-Cohen, Ph.D., Ofer Golan, Ph.D., Emma Ashwin, Ph.D.
Three international researchers tackle the question of whether empathy can be taught by providing an ingenious way of teaching it—one that begins with emotional recognition.
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By Diane Twachtman-Cullen, Ph.D., CCC-SLP
First came the illness; then the autism diagnosis—an unforgettable and inspirational story of love, courage, and the triumph of the human spirit.
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By Nancy Perry, Ph.D.
Dr. Nancy Perry takes a comprehensive look at how our view of the term high functioning impacts the intervention choices we make for individuals on the autism spectrum.
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By Debra Mandell, O.T.R./L., M.A., Melissa Baker, M.S. CCC-SLP, Terence Murphy, M.B.A.
You’ll read about the progress that two little girls have made at the school and the innovative software that takes visual supports to a new level.
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Winner: ASQ’s “Kids on the Cover” Contest
And the winner is…
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Great Resources for Families and Professionals
The editors of ASQ share some of the outstanding resources that have been featured in recent issues.
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