Research: Establishing Response and Stimulus Classes for Initiating Joint Attention in Children with Autism

Authored by Jones, EA in Research in Autism Spectrum Disorder, Volume 3, Issue , p. 375-389, (2009).

Article summary (posted Nov 27, 2009):

Behavioral therapy may help children with autism learn verbal and nonverbal ways to start a social interaction.

People with autism may have problems initiating (starting) a social interaction. The first step is called “initiating joint attention.” This article describes the way that 3 preschool children with autism were taught these skills. Therapists used behavioral therapy techniques based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) theory. For one boy, the therapist used toys that could show a response (e.g., singing stuffed animal or piano with lights). When the boy did the right behavior, the therapist would make the toy react and the boy liked that. For another boy, the therapist used games as a way to teach the skills. The boys learned some of the skills, and eventually were able to use them with their.

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You can access the original abstract and the complete paper is sometimes available for free via Google Scholar (look for entries that say "PDF" or "HTML" on the right side of the page).
applied behavior analysis (ABA), attention, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), initiating joint attention, interaction, joint attention, nonverbal communication, preschool, science, singing, social interaction, therapist, therapy, toy, verbal
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