Perceptions of social challenges of adults with autism spectrum disorder.

This study examines perceptions of social challenges by adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The investigators analyzed three separate, regularly scheduled social group meetings attended by a total of 18 adults with ASD where the activity was a discussion of social issues. Participants generated social questions and challenges they had encountered as a result of having autism. The questions were presented to the group for a discussion of potential solutions. Written and audio data were collected and a member check was completed. The data were plumbed for key words and emergent themes to identify major social challenges as viewed by adults with ASD. The emergent themes included relationships at work, developing and maintaining personal relationships, appropriate behaviors around members of the opposite sex, and personal perspectives on having ASD.

Maternal judgments of intentionality in young children with autism: the effects of diagnostic information and stereotyped behavior.

This study examined the relation among maternal judgment of intentionality and variables relevant to families of children with autism. Thirty-six mothers of children with autism rated segments of home videotape of behavior from very young children later diagnosed with autism. Mothers were randomly assigned to either a diagnostic or a no diagnostic information group. No significant difference was found on overall ratings of intentionality. Maternal stress was not correlated with overall ratings of intentionality for either group. Mothers in the diagnostic information group rated stereotyped behavior as less intentional. Post hoc analyses showed no differences on maternal ratings of intentionality when the child was in a social setting or interacting with an object, but there were significant differences between ratings when the child was alone. The results are discussed in relation to early development and identification issues in autism.