Module Two Burkhart Center Home TTU Special Education Module One Module Three

Social Interaction and Behavior

Before this topic can be fully explored, it is imperative that the reader be reminded that autism is a spectrum disorder. Fouse and Wheeler (1997) write, "It [Autism] occurs at all intellectual levels and resultant characteristics, difficulties in communication, social interaction, and behavior, are as unique as the individual" (p. 1).

Therefore when investigating and trying to understand the behavior and social interactions of individuals with autism, the reader must remember that not all situations and interventions can be applied to all people.

This brief overview of behaviors related to the children/students diagnosed with autism is by no means an inclusive list. It is also necessary to reiterate that not all students will display any or all of the behaviors listed in this section. Behaviors for all children, regardless of a diagnosed disability, vary depending on the individual child. Many different factors have a direct relationship to the behaviors exhibited by children/students. Factors to consider include, but are not limited to:  

Environment
Interaction with people
Consistency of schedules and routines
The feeling of self-worth
Respect

 

2005 Burkhart Center for Autism Education & Research