Using Comic Strip Conversations to Increase Social Satisfaction and Decrease Loneliness in Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Comic Strip Conversations have been used to improve the social skills of students on the autism spectrum. Research on the effectiveness of this strategy was extended to three lower elementary-aged male students diagnosed as exhibiting high-functioning autism. One elementary special education teacher and her 2 paraprofessionals used Comic Strip Conversations for a period of 6 weeks with 3 students who exhibited signs of loneliness. All participants became more involved socially and actively began to seek friendships. The educators working with them noted increased friendships in the classroom and on the playground as well as visible signs of social satisfaction among the participants.