Definition
Social impairment is a hallmark feature of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Research has shown the impacts of social deficits, particularly with high functioning ASD, including challenges with friendship development, loneliness, and depressive symptoms. Factors are also being identified that influence social skills, including executive functions (EF). It is important for the research and clinical community to understand the direct and indirect influence that these constructs have on each other as this has treatment implications. To support a child with ASD as they are experiencing social isolation or depression, it may be necessary to recognize and help build other skill areas such as cognitive flexibility, emotion regulation, inhibition, etc., which may assist in improving their socio-emotional outcomes.
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Lieb, R. (2020). Executive Functions, Social Impairment, Friendship Quality and Adjustment in HFA with ASD. In: Volkmar, F. (eds) Encyclopedia of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-6435-8_102392-1
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-6435-8_102392-1
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