Social Interaction Style in Autism: A Narrative Review of Social Behaviors and Outcomes in Autistic and Neurotypical Interactions

Abstract

Social interaction difficulties are a defining feature of autism. Historically, research has concentrated on comparing the social behaviors of autistic and neurotypical individuals in cross-neurotype dyads, often attributing challenges in communication to autistic social deficits. However, recent studies on interactions between two autistic individuals provide new insights, suggesting that some social difficulties may at least partially arise from mutual misunderstandings. This narrative review analyzes 25 studies on autistic, mixed, and neurotypical interactions, highlighting consistent differences (e.g., reduced mutual gaze and backchanneling in autistic interactions) and similarities between autistic and neurotypical social interactions (e.g., turn-taking), as well as measurements yielding mixed results (e.g., social motor synchrony). We discuss the variability in social behaviors, interaction outcomes, and study designs in the literature and interpret the existing findings in the light of individual deficits and relational difficulties. We emphasize the need for future research to consider both same- and mixed-neurotype interactions and to include perspectives from neurotypical as well as autistic individuals to enhance our understanding of social interaction in autism.

Community Brief

Why is this topic important?

Social interaction difficulties are a core feature of autism, but traditional research has often focused on comparing autistic individuals with neurotypical individuals, attributing communication difficulties to deficits within autistic individuals. Recent studies, however, suggest that social difficulties may arise not only from individual differences but also from mismatches in interaction styles between autistic and neurotypical individuals. This shift could improve how we approach and support social communication in autism.

What was the purpose of this article?

The purpose of this narrative review was to examine and synthesize findings from 25 studies that explore social interactions in autistic, mixed-neurotype, and neurotypical dyads. The review aimed to identify patterns in social behaviors, understand the differences and similarities across these groups, and offer a more nuanced view of the factors contributing to social difficulties in autism.

What were the results of this study?

The review found both consistent and variable patterns in social interactions. Autistic interactions often show reduced mutual gaze and backchanneling (e.g., nodding or verbal affirmations), but similarities to neurotypical interactions were found in turn-taking. The results on social motor synchrony (the coordination of movements between individuals) were mixed, highlighting the complexity of social behaviors. The study also noted considerable variability in how social behaviors were measured across studies.

What do the authors conclude?

The authors concluded that social difficulties in autism cannot be fully explained by deficits in autistic individuals alone. Instead, these challenges often stem from relational difficulties—misunderstandings or mismatches in how autistic and neurotypical individuals interact. By considering both individual differences and relational dynamics, the review advocates for a shift away from the fully deficit-based models of autism and toward a more relational and context-sensitive understanding of social interaction.

What do the authors recommend for future research on this topic?

The authors recommend that future research should focus on examining both same- and mixed-neurotype interactions. They also emphasize the need for studies to include perspectives from both autistic and neurotypical individuals to gain a deeper understanding of social communication. More systematic studies are needed that look at how both parties in an interaction contribute to social difficulties and successes.

How will this analysis help autistic adults now and in the future?

This review provides new insights into the nature of social difficulties faced by autistic individuals and emphasizes the importance of relational dynamics rather than solely focusing on deficits. For autistic adults, this perspective could help improve social support, educational programs, and clinical practices by recognizing that social misunderstandings are mutual rather than one-sided. In the future, this research could contribute to developing more effective interventions that focus on improving communication and understanding in both same- and mixed-neurotype interactions, ultimately promoting more inclusive social environments.