Single-Subject Study on the Effects of Social Stories on the Social Interaction of a Child with Autism Spectrum Disorder in China

Abstract

ABSTRACT Intervention using social stories is a widely used strategy for children with autism spectrum disorder. However, empirical studies on the efficacy of social stories in improving social interaction have yielded mixed results, and such research in China is scarce. This study examined the effectiveness of social stories for increasing social interaction, particularly initiation and response, verbal exchange, body language, eye contact, and combined interaction of a child with autism spectrum disorder. A single-subject experimental study was conducted with two baseline sessions, two intervention phases, and a follow-up period. The results demonstrated immediate and maintained effects after utilising social story intervention. The participant’s response behaviours improved more than initiation, and body language as well as eye contact improved more than verbal and combined interaction. Social validity findings revealed positive evaluations of the participant’s mother and head teacher. Social story intervention is a promising strategy for improving the social interaction of children with autism spectrum disorder and that should be explored further in future research.