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Coronavirus (COVID-19) Health and Safety Guide

ASERT has put together some resources for those with autism and those who care for people with autism relating to the current Coronavirus outbreak.

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Fostering Interpersonal Relationships

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Competencies: Community Living Skills and Supports; Relationships/Social Skills

Overview

The associations we have with others are a critical part of our lives. Our interpersonal relationships provide love, support, and a connectedness that all of us need. Through interpersonal relationships we learn about ourselves, how we affect others, and we get feedback about who we are as human beings. It is no different for those on the Autism spectrum. While differences in social interaction are a defining characteristic of Autism, autistic individuals desire interpersonal relationships just as much as anyone else. In your work you are in a position to support another person in meeting their needs for connection. Using some of the techniques below, you can help the person you support to explore and establish new relationships and deepen existing ones.

Use modeling, role-play, and social narratives to teach and rehearse skills

  • Initiation/Greeting
  • Commenting/Complimenting
  • Question asking
  • Turn taking /Conversation

Create opportunities for friendships to develop and deepen

  • Look to strengths and interests to identify reinforcing avenues for interaction
  • Explore community resources (library, classes, meet-ups)
  • Talk to the individual about organizing time with others at home or in community settings

Reinforce interpersonal relationships

  • Praise the use of social-communication skills
  • Provide support as needed to scaffold social interaction and friendship-related behaviors

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This information was developed by the Autism Services, Education, Resources, and Training Collaborative (ASERT). For more information, please contact ASERT at 877-231-4244 or info@PAautism.org. ASERT is funded by the Bureau of Supports for Autism and Special Populations, PA Department of Human Services.