Social Interaction Behavior Research Articles

Identification and support of autistic individuals within the UK Criminal Justice System: a practical approach based upon professional consensus with input from lived experience

BackgroundAutism spectrum disorder (hereafter referred to as autism) is characterised by difficulties with (i) social communication, social interaction, and (ii) restricted and repetitive interests and behaviours. Estimates of autism prevalence within the criminal justice system (CJS) vary considerably, but there is evidence to suggest that the condition can be missed or misidentified within this population. Autism has implications for an individual’s journey through the CJS, from police questioning and engagement in court proceedings through to risk assessment, formulation, therapeutic approaches, engagement with support services, and long-term social and legal outcomes.MethodsThis consensus based on professional opinion with input from lived experience aims to provide general principles for consideration by United Kingdom (UK) CJS personnel when working with autistic individuals, focusing on autistic offenders and those suspected of offences. Principles may be transferable to countries beyond the UK. Multidisciplinary professionals and two service users were approached for their input to address the effective identification and support strategies for autistic individuals within the CJS.ResultsThe authors provide a consensus statement including recommendations on the general principles of effective identification, and support strategies for autistic individuals across different levels of the CJS.ConclusionGreater attention needs to be given to this population as they navigate the CJS.

Effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on autistic behaviors and GRIN2B gene expression in valproic acid-exposed rats.

Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficits in social interaction, communication, and restricted repetitive behaviors. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has emerged as a potential treatment for autism, although its effects on behavior and gene expression are not well understood. The GRIN2B gene, known for its involvement in encoding a glutamate receptor subunit crucial for neuron communication and associated with autism, was a focus of this study. Using a rat model induced by prenatal exposure to valproic acid, we examined the impact of HBOT on autism-like behaviors and GRIN2B gene expression. Male Wistar rats were categorized into four groups: control, VPA (valproic acid-exposed), VPA+HBOT [2 atmosphere absolute (ATA)], and VPA+HBOT (2.5 ATA). The rats underwent several behavioral tests to assess social behavior, anxiety, stereotype and exploratory behaviors, and learning. Following the behavioral tests, the HBOT groups received 15 sessions of HBOT at pressures of 2 and 2.5 (ATA), and their behaviors were re-evaluated. Subsequently, real-time PCR was employed to measure GRIN2B gene expression in the frontal lobe. Our results indicated that HBOT significantly increased social interaction and exploratory behaviors in VPA-exposed rats, alongside elevated GRIN2B gene expression in their frontal lobe. Our findings imply that HBOT might have a potential role in ameliorating autism-related behaviors in the VPA rat model of autism through potential modulation of GRIN2B gene expression. However, additional research is essential to fully comprehend the underlying mechanisms and refine the HBOT protocol for optimizing its effectiveness in improving autism-related symptoms.

The Application of Extended Reality in Treating Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder in children, characterized by social interaction, communication difficulties, and repetitive and stereotyped behaviors. Existing intervention methods have limitations, such as requiring long treatment periods and needing to be more convenient to implement. Extended Reality (XR) technology offers a virtual environment to enhance children's social, communication, and self-regulation skills. This paper compares XR theoretical models, application examples, and intervention effects. The study reveals that XR intervention therapy is mainly based on cognitive rehabilitation, teaching, and social-emotional learning theories. It utilizes algorithms, models, artificial intelligence (AI), eye-tracking, and other technologies for interaction, achieving diverse intervention outcomes. Participants showed effective improvement in competency barriers using XR-based multimodal interactive platforms. However, Mixed Reality (MR) technology still requires further development. Future research should explore multimsodal interaction technologies combining XR and AI, optimize models, prioritize the development of MR intervention scenarios, and sustain an optimal intervention level.

Investigation of communicative behaviors and communication functions of Turkish individuals with autism spectrum disorder through Communication Matrix

Objectives This study investigates the communication functions and communicative behaviors of Turkish individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), using the Turkish adaptation of the Communication Matrix. Methods Thirty participants with ASD (24 males, six females; age 2;5–22;11) were assessed using the Turkish Communication Matrix, the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), and Denver-II Developmental Screening Test. Based on the CARS scores, the participants were categorized into mild-moderate and moderate-severe autism groups. Differences in Communication Matrix scores between the groups were analyzed using the Mann Whitney-U Test, while the relationship between Communication Matrix and CARS scores was examined through Spearman’s correlation. Results Mild-to-moderate autistic participants exhibited more often and diverse communication functions and communicative behaviors, especially in behavior regulation (refuse and obtain), social interaction, and information-seeking or information-providing behaviors than those with moderate-to-severe autism. Significant differences emerged in communicative behaviors for social interaction and information-seeking or information-providing behaviors. A significant negative correlation was observed between CARS scores and communicative behaviors for social interaction and information-seeking or information-providing behaviors. Conclusions Increased autism severity reduces the diversity and functionality of communicative behaviors. Social interaction and information-seeking or information-providing behaviors are the skills that are most impacted by autism severity.

What Factors Predict Adaptive Functioning in Preschool Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder? A Longitudinal Study.

Adaptive functioning constitutes a fundamental aspect of the phenotype associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in preschool-aged children, exerting a significant influence on both the child and the family's overall quality of life. The aim of this study was to investigate the predictors of the adaptive functioning domains in preschool-age children with ASD at two time points, providing a snapshot of this fundamental developmental step. Methods: Ninety-five children with ASD (M = 3.89, SD = 1.13) were included in the study and longitudinal data (the mean length of the longitudinal data collection was 1 year) on ASD features such as social communication and social interaction, repetitive and restricted behavior, cognitive level, and adaptive functioning were collected. We considered autistic features, cognitive level, and sociodemographic factors as possible predictors of the different adaptive functioning domains one year later. Results: Data obtained showed a worsening of the ASD features and adaptive functioning after one year. Furthermore, the severity of repetitive and restricted behavior predicted adaptive functioning, especially in the social and practical domains of the child, one year later. This prediction was observed alongside the child's cognitive level. Conclusions: The study identifies some potential predictive factors of specific adaptive functioning domains in preschoolers with ASD. Considering how critical adaptive functioning is for the well-being of both the child and their family, it becomes imperative to design early-stage interventions focused on nurturing adaptive skills in children with ASD.

Object-centered family interactions for young autistic children: a diary study

Autistic Children often struggle with social interaction and communication, studies have found that many of them prefer to interact with objects than people. However, there is a lack of research exploring the specific characteristics and factors involved in interactions within families with autistic children where objects are the center of the interaction. This paper describes the process and findings of a diary study exploring how young autistic children interact with their families through objects in natural scenarios. A one-week diary study was conducted with six families with young autistic children. Diary videos were recorded onsite and coded later according to a social interaction behavior scheme with corresponding diary entries. Qualitative data analysis was conducted to reveal possible patterns. Results revealed ongoing difficulties in establishing and maintaining family interaction and identified influential factors of object-centered family interaction. The most prevalent pattern observed was parents taking the lead in interactions, followed by the child's confirmation response. Remarkably, daily necessities emerged as potential physical mediums for enhancing family interactions, opening avenues for exploring tangible designs in human–computer interaction. These findings offer valuable implications for future research and the development of innovative designs that promote enriching interactions for autistic children and their families.

Evaluation of the Influence of Consanguinity and the Role of IFN-γ in Autistic Children, as well as Disease Severity and Oral Health Status

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting children, characterized by difficulties in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behavior. Consanguineous marriages increase the likelihood of discovering recessive conditions and promoting gene expression, leading to autosomal recessive disorders. Immunity also plays a vital role in autism development, with changes in pro-inflammatory cytokine concentrations or synthesis indicative of aberrant cellular immunity. This research aims to determine the effects of consanguinity on autism, measure interferon-gamma salivary levels, and examine the relationship between autistic subjects’ dental health condition and caries occurrence. Materials and Methods: Forty autistic children were divided into mild, moderate, and severe categories according to their symptoms and social impairments. The oral investigation involved calculating decayed, missing, and filled teeth and simplified oral hygiene indices. Salivary samples were collected via the drooling technique, and salivary interferon-gamma levels were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: Consanguineous marriage was significant in the patient group, and salivary interferon-gamma levels were considerably elevated. A higher occurrence of dental caries was detected in autistic individuals. As disease severity increases, dental caries and oral health conditions also worsen. Conclusion: Consanguinity increases the incidence of autism due to the likelihood of recessively inherited congenital abnormalities. Autism has higher levels of interferon-gamma, which play a role in the condition’s pathophysiology. Additionally, inadequate oral health was noticed in autistic children.

From Outcome-Based to Language-Based Preferences

We review the literature on models that try to explain human behavior in social interactions described by normal-form games with monetary payoffs. We start by covering social and moral preferences. We then focus on the growing body of research showing that people react to the language with which actions are described, especially when it activates moral concerns. We conclude by arguing that behavioral economics is in the midst of a paradigm shift toward language-based preferences, which will require an exploration of new models and experimental setups.(JEL C70, C90, D11, D90, Z13)

AUTISM IN PAKISTAN: UNDERSTANDING THE CHALLENGES AND SEEKING SOLUTIONS

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by impaired social interaction, communication difficulties, and repetitive behaviors. This conceptual article aims to comprehensively explore the state of autism in Pakistan, encompassing its prevalence, diagnosis, cultural factors, challenges, and potential interventions. Drawing upon empirical research and scholarly literature, this article underscores the intricate landscape of autism in Pakistan and advocates for a more inclusive and supportive society for individuals with autism

Wits Wellness Facilitates Engagement and Self-Efficacy for Practicing Healthy Behaviors

ABSTRACT Most adults 65 and older have one or more chronic health conditions and 11% are at risk for or have changing cognitive abilities. Also, more adults are socially isolated, increasing their risks for adverse health effects. Classes that build self-efficacy for increasing healthy behaviors and social engagement are important for older adults’ health and well-being. Wits Wellness, a 12-week evidence-informed workshop series, was designed to encourage social interaction, intellectual engagement, and healthy behaviors. Participant-level feasibility and acceptability were examined with a survey (N = 164) and six focus groups (N = 22). Content analysis was conducted on the survey and thematic analysis was utilized for the transcribed focus groups. Participants were satisfied with Wits Wellness and described how the course is intellectually engaging, facilitates social interaction, and encourages practicing healthy behaviors/skills. Focus group findings revealed that combining enjoyable intellectual activities with health information was acceptable and feasible. Participants appreciated the opportunity for social engagement, and Wits Wellness increased their confidence to engage in healthy behaviors. Participants also described continuing to participate in healthy and socially engaging activities after the workshop ended. Course improvement suggestions include having a skilled facilitator to manage online etiquette, offering activities that appeal to diverse skill sets, and offering shorter sessions for younger older adults.

Culture Ethnographic Study of Cafe Consumers

This research is motivated by changes in social habits, ideas and behavior in normal social interactions. Especially in terms of using technology. In cyberspace, people can create any identity or existence they choose, but in reality they feel lonely. This often happens in public places, especially cafes. This research focuses on the phenomenon of cafe consumer behavior who is more focused on gadgets than enjoying the company of colleagues, using a type of ethnographic research that involves description and analysis of linguistic patterns from certain groups of people who have similar cultures. Using a Simple Research Design Method with Triangulation Theory (Rofiah & Bungin, 2021). In the process of collecting data and for socialization, reflections will be captured when they are in a situation without communication. This research was conducted in cafes in Indonesia with certain considerations. This sampling approach aligns with the social dynamics of cafes as diners interact with others to find out their orders. The findings of this research are an Ethnographic Study of Cafe Consumer Culture in Indonesia that Cafe Culture, Focus on Gadgets, Perception, Motivation, Information, Addiction, Filling free time, Peers, Professional, Personal Reasons, Lifestyle, Likes hanging out, Groups.

Cholestatic liver disease leads to significant adaptative changes in neural circuits regulating social behavior in mice to enhance sociability

Background & aimsCholestatic liver diseases (CLD) are commonly associated with behavioral changes, including social isolation, that negatively affects patient quality of life and remains unaltered by current therapies. It remains unclear whether CLD-associated social dysfunction stems from a direct effect on the brain, or from the psychological impact of CLD. The psychological component of disease is absent in animals, so we investigated the impact of CLD on social behavior and gene expression profiles in key social behavior-regulating brain regions in a mouse model. MethodsCLD due to bile duct ligation was used with the three-chamber sociability test for behavioral phenotyping. Differentially expressed gene (DEG) signatures were delineated in 3 key brain regions regulating social behavior using RNA-seq. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA®) was applied to streamline DEG data interpretation and integrate findings with social behavior-regulating pathways to identify important brain molecular networks and regulatory mechanisms disrupted in CLD. ResultsCLD mice exhibited enhanced social interactive behavior and significantly altered gene expression in each of the three social behavior-regulating brain regions examined. DEG signatures in BDL mice were associated with key IPA®-identified social behavior-regulating pathways including Oxytocin in Brain Signaling, GABA Receptor Signaling, Dopamine Receptor Signaling, and Glutamate Receptor Signaling. ConclusionsCLD causes complex alterations in gene expression profiles in key social behavior-regulating brain areas/pathways linked to enhanced social interactive behavior. These findings, if paralleled in CLD patients, suggest that CLD-associated reductions in social interactions predominantly relate to psychological impacts of disease and may inform new approaches to improve management.

When team members (dis)agree about social rules and norms: a shared relational models approach to explaining team viability

When people work together in teams, they ideally have a common understanding, a shared mental model regarding various aspects of teamwork. This common understanding refers not only to task-related aspects of teamwork but also to the elemental social rules and norms that underlie social interactions among team members. Relational models theory proposes that social rules and norms can be seen as the implementation and combination of four elemental relational models that people use to coordinate their social interactions. Since each of these relational models encompasses a distinct moral motive, which determines expectations of fairness and appropriate behaviors in social interactions, we propose that the degree of sharedness of individuals’ perceptions regarding the applicable relational models in teams (i.e., shared relational models) is positively related to various aspects of team viability, mediated by perceived justice and relationship conflict. In two field studies collecting data from N = 40 and N = 46 work teams in organizations, we found reproducible support for most of our hypotheses. Our studies’ findings emphasize the importance of shared relational models among team members for justice perceptions, conflict and team viability in organizational settings.

Effects of dialogic reading for comprehension (LuDiCa) on the social interaction of autistic adolescents and their peers

BackgroundIn today’s contemporary world, relationships take a prominent role in the lives of adolescents. However, challenges related to mutual understanding and a lack of inclusive environments can often lead to autistic teens feeling excluded.ObjectiveIn order to assess the impact of naturalistic interventions on interpersonal relationships, we conducted an experimental test utilizing Dialogic Reading for Comprehension (LuDiCa) in online reading circles with groups comprising both autistic and neurotypical adolescents. Our focus was on exploring its relevance for enhancing social interaction, particularly in terms of conversational acts, sharing experiences, initiations, and questions.MethodsFive autistic and five neurotypical students between 11 and 15 years old from a public school in Brasilia, Federal District, participated. We paired groups A and B (made up of trios of teenagers) and groups C and D (made up of pairs) in a multiple baseline design per reading group, in which all groups went through the baseline conditions (BL), intervention (LuDiCa) and maintenance.ResultsLuDiCa increased the frequency of conversational acts of both autistic participants and neurotypical peers. In addition, the intervention favored initiations, questions, and sharing experiences, through the shared activity of reading and talking about a work of fiction. Participants rated the intervention in relation to the platform, the book, the reading facilitator, and interaction with peers. We discuss the potential of the facilitator's role in favoring interactions and the potential of LuDiCa as a joint activity for the engagement of adolescents. We also include suggestions for future research focused on the online context and discuss some limitations of the LuDiCa intervention.ConclusionIn summary, our study offers initial experimental evidence demonstrating the positive impact of LuDiCa on social interaction behaviors among both autistic and neurotypical adolescents within an inclusive setting.

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF AUTISM: A CASE REPORT

In Aayurvedd, Unmada is a term that represents mental ailments. It is a broad term that covers autism spectrum disorders, too. The primary cause of Unmada, as explained in Ayurveda, is the derangement in Manas (mental functioning), Budhi (application of the acquired knowledge), Samjna(perceptions), Jnana(experiences), Smriti(memory), Bhakti (emotional adhesions), Seela (conditioned activities). According to Ayurveda, the symptoms of autism spectrum disorders as per DSM V criteria are diminished social interaction, impaired language and restricted repetitive behaviours (RRB), which can be co-related with Unmada. Aim and Objective- Ayurvedic management of Autism symptoms w.s.r. Unmada: A case study in the present case study, A diagnosed case of ASD, age four years female, came to OPD of Kaumarbhritya, Rishikul Ayurvedic College and Hospital, Haridwar. Along with the addiction to watching mobile. Materials and methods: The treatment protocol of Unmada, like Balpanchkarma, speech therapy, and parent counselling, are adopted with classical medication according to the Dosha predominance. Result -Balpanchkarma, like Nasya being the Dwara to Shiras, opens up the Manovaha Srotas, Speech therapy for speaking and communication skills development, Parental counselling for social skill development, restriction of watching mobile, etc. These procedures, along with the internal medications, have improved the present case.

Does digital technology make people healthier: the impact of digital use on the lifestyle of Chinese older adults

BackgroundWith the arrival of the era of large-scale production, sharing and application of data, digital use has gradually changed people’s daily entertainment, consumption, social interaction, learning and other behaviors in its efficient form. This paper mainly discusses whether this fast and convenient behavior leads Chinese older adults to adopt healthier lifestyles.MethodsUsing the most recent information from the Chinese Family Panel Studies (CFPS) in 2020, this paper conducted a descriptive statistical analysis on the basic situation of digital use and lifestyles among Chinese older adults and used a structural equation model to analyse the influence of frequency and types of digital use in a variety of different aspects of the real life of Chinese older adults.ResultsResearch revealed that the quality of life of Chinese older adults improved significantly as a result of their use of digital technology. The frequency of digital use (FDU) significantly improved Chinese older adults’ diet, sleep, exercise, smoking and drinking, and relieved their depression. The types of digital use (TDU) had a significant positive correlation with the lifestyle of Chinese older adults, especially in the influence of digital entertainment (DE), digital consumption (DC) and digital social interaction (DI) on the lifestyle of Chinese older adults.ConclusionsDigital use can improve the health of Chinese older adults by promoting a healthy lifestyle through various means. The findings of this study have a substantial positive impact on bridging the digital divide that Chinese older adults face, as well as fostering the integration of digital use into their healthy lifestyles.

Insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF-2) rescues social deficits in NLG3-/y mouse model of ASDs.

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) comprise developmental disabilities characterized by impairments of social interaction and repetitive behavior, often associated with cognitive deficits. There is no current treatment that can ameliorate most of the ASDs symptomatology; thus, identifying novel therapies is urgently needed. Here, we used the Neuroligin 3 knockout mouse (NLG3-/y), a model that recapitulates the social deficits reported in ASDs patients, to test the effects of systemic administration of IGF-2, a polypeptide that crosses the blood-brain barrier and acts as a cognitive enhancer. We show that systemic IGF-2 treatment reverses the typical defects in social interaction and social novelty discrimination reflective of ASDs-like phenotypes. This effect was not accompanied by any change in spontaneous glutamatergic synaptic transmission in CA2 hippocampal region, a mechanism found to be crucial for social novelty discrimination. However, in both NLG3+/y and NLG3-/y mice IGF-2 increased cell excitability. Although further investigation is needed to clarify the cellular and molecular mechanisms underpinning IGF-2 effect on social behavior, our findings highlight IGF-2 as a potential pharmacological tool for the treatment of social dysfunctions associated with ASDs.

Vitamin A ameliorates valproic acid-induced autism-like symptoms in developing zebrafish larvae by attenuating oxidative stress and apoptosis

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social deficits and repetitive/stereotyped behaviors. Prenatal exposure to valproic acid (VPA) has been reported to induce ASD-like symptoms in human and rodents. However, the etiology and pathogenesis of ASD have not been well elucidated. This study aimed to explore the mechanisms underlying VPA-induced ASD-like behaviors using zebrafish model and investigated whether vitamin A could prevent VPA-induced neurotoxicity. Here, zebrafish embryos were exposed to 0, 25 and 50 μM VPA from 4 to 96 h post fertilization (hpf) and the neurotoxicity was assessed. Our results showed that VPA affected the normal development of zebrafish larvae and induced ASD-like behaviors, including reduced locomotor activity, decreased distance near conspecifics, impaired social interaction and repetitive swimming behaviors. Exposure to VPA decreased the GFP signal in transgenic HuC:egfp zebrafish according to the negative effect of VPA on the expression of neurodevelopmental genes. In addition, VPA enhanced oxidative stress by promoting the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and inhibiting the activity of superoxide dismutase, then triggered apoptosis by upregulation of apoptotic genes. These adverse outcomes were mitigated by vitamin A, suggesting that vitamin A rescued VPA-induced ASD-like symptoms by inhibiting oxidative stress and apoptosis. Overall, this study identified vitamin A as a promising strategy for future therapeutic regulator of VPA-induced ASD-like behaviors.

The Gluten-Casein-Free Diet in Children with Autism: A Clinical Results of the Ophthalmic and Behavioral Manifestations

Aim: To evaluate the ophthalmic and behavioral effects of a gluten-free casein-free diet (GCFD) in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Method: The study was conducted from November 2020 to January 2023. We designed an 8-week clinical trial of GCFD on corneal reflex, pupil size, body mass index (BMI), weight, Autistic Disorder Index, Communication, Social interaction, and Stereotype Behavior. Results: A total of thirty participants completed the trial. GCFD reduced BMI [%95 CI -4.8895 to -2.1305 (P < 0.0001)], weight [%95 CI -8.5153 to -0.0647 (P = 0.0467)], Autistic Disorder Index [%95 CI -28.0359 to -16.2841 (P < 0.0001)], Communication [%95 CI -3.3325 to -1.6675 (P < 0.0001)], Social Interaction [%95 CI -4.3190 to -2.4010 (P < 0.0001)], and Stereotype Behavior [%95 CI -2.3939 to -0.2461 (P =0.01)] significantly. GCFD also reduced left [%95 CI -2.2421 to -1.6779 (P <0.0001)] and right pupil size [%95 CI -2.2999 to -1.7201 (P <0.0001)] significantly. Conversely, corneal reflex was significantly increased [95% CI 0.2159 to 2.1241 (P = 0.01)]. No differences were observed for IPD. Conclusion: This study suggested that the GCFD can effectively control ASD behaviors as well as regulate autonomic functions related to ophthalmic markers such as pupil size and corneal reflex, but more research is needed.

Age-related decline in social interaction is associated with decreased c-Fos induction in select brain regions independent of oxytocin receptor expression profiles

Social behavior decreases with aging, and we have previously found a substantial decline in social investigative behavior of old female rats. In this study we examined the neural activation pattern (c-Fos mRNA) of young (3 month) and old (18 month) female rats after brief 10 min exposure to a novel female rat in order to identify forebrain regions that show selective age-related alterations in their neural response to social investigation. We also measured relative oxytocin receptor expression (Oxtr mRNA) as a possible factor in age-related declines in c-Fos induction after social interaction. Young rats exposed to a social partner had a greater c-Fos mRNA response than those exposed to novel context alone in the lateral septum and septohypothalamic area, with blunted increases evident in old rats. In addition, c-Fos mRNA levels in the lateral septum were positively correlated with social investigative behavior. Interestingly, age-related differences in c-Fos gene induction were unrelated to the local amount of Oxtr expression within specific brain regions, although we found an age-related decline in Oxtr expression in the ventromedial hypothalamus. This functional neuroanatomical characterization may point to certain brain regions that are especially sensitive to age-related declines associated with social interaction behavior.