Improving Conversational Fluidity in Young Adults With Autism Spectrum Disorder Using a Video-Feedback Intervention

Abstract

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experience challenges maintaining fluid, reciprocal conversations, resulting in prolonged, awkward pauses. Such pauses disrupt the pacing of an interaction and create (a) less favorable social impressions and (b) perceptions of limited social competence. To help these individuals succeed socially, there is a need for intervention techniques specifically targeting this area. Using a multiple baseline experimental design, this study evaluated the efficacy of a video-feedback intervention to improve conversational fluidity in young adults with ASD. Specifically, number of long pauses and questions asked during a conversation were measured. In addition, social desirability was examined as well as participant-reported confidence in their skills and satisfaction with the intervention. Following intervention, all participants improved in their ability to maintain a fluid conversation. Furthermore, supplemental assessments indicated that each participant improved in their confidence in communication skills and was rated as more socially desirable by their same-aged peers.