A New Look at Social Skills Training for Autistic Adults
New study emphasizes need for customized social skills training (SST) for autistic adults, calls for mutual understanding.
Recently, an important study was published that caught my attention and likely that of many others in the autistic community. The study, titled “Just Ask What Support We Need”: Autistic Adults’ Feedback on Social Skills Training, was conducted by a group of academics of the University of Bristol in the UK.
They explored how we, autistic adults, view the programs designed to help us improve our social skills. This research is a big deal because it shines a light on how these programs can better serve us. As an autistic adult, this study resonates with me deeply, making me reflect on my own experiences with social skills training (SST).
The study suggests that SST needs a makeover to truly benefit autistic adults. It emphasizes that since every one of us is unique, the training must be tailored to individual needs. This point is crucial because it acknowledges that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work for everyone. Additionally, the study proposes that autistic people and non-autistic people have much to learn from each other, highlighting that SST shouldn’t just be for us but for everyone, to foster better mutual understanding.
However, the study also uncovered that some autistic adults have reservations about SST.
Some participants felt these programs were trying to make them conform to non-autistic norms, which is troubling. No one should feel pressured to hide their true self.
This research focused on autistic adults in the UK, leaving us wondering if autistic adults in other regions share these views. Still, its insights are incredibly valuable, prompting a necessary dialogue on how to enhance SST for everyone, regardless of location.
We need to heed the voices of autistic adults and adapt our programs accordingly. This means designing training that’s right for each individual and broadening our educational efforts so everyone learns to better understand and interact with one another.
Merging these reflections with the latest scientific findings in autism research, it’s evident that the conversation around SST is evolving. The concept of neurodiversity suggests we shouldn’t aim to ‘normalize’ autistic individuals but support them in ways that honor their differences. While the push for more personalized and inclusive SST aligns with this progressive thinking, a critical question arises: Can these programs truly celebrate neurodivergence without inadvertently promoting conformity?
the idea of mutual learning, though well-intentioned, might oversimplify the complex societal biases against neurodivergence.
Moreover, the idea of mutual learning, though well-intentioned, might oversimplify the complex societal biases against neurodivergence. Recent research points to systemic barriers and stigmatization as significant challenges for autistic individuals. These findings argue for a more comprehensive overhaul of societal attitudes toward autism, extending beyond the scope of individual understanding and acceptance.
The diversity within the autistic community is vast, and new research underscores the importance of adopting an intersectional lens in autism studies and interventions. Considering factors like gender, race, and socioeconomic background is essential, as these elements influence the experiences and needs of autistic individuals. Personalized SST is a step forward, but without addressing these varied dimensions, we may still fall short of meeting everyone’s needs effectively.
Recent studies also stress the importance of involving autistic individuals not just as participants but as co-designers of research and interventions. This collaborative approach ensures that SST programs and other initiatives truly reflect our needs and preferences. While the initial article mentions the involvement of autistic adults in developing SST, it doesn’t delve into the transformative impact of such collaboration.
This should challenge us to reconsider not only the content of SST programs but also our collective attitudes towards autism.
In wrapping up, the initial article offers hope for the future of SST for autistic adults, but we must also consider the broader implications of recent research. These findings challenge us to reconsider not only the content of SST programs but also our collective attitudes towards autism. By integrating these insights, we can strive for truly inclusive, respectful, and beneficial support for autistic individuals, crafted with our direct input and lived experience at the forefront.
