Abstract:
Complex social-cognitive deficits are common in individuals diagnosed with high
functioning autism and Asperger syndrome. Research on effective and evidence-based
social interventions is needed for this population. This study focused specifically on the
challenges these individuals face with respect to flexible thinking and related flexible
behaviour in social situations. Madrigal and Winner's (2008) Superflex curriculum -
targets social flexibility, however at the time of this study no published research had been conducted to determine the effectiveness of this approach. This study was a pilot study, which sought to examine the impact of the Superflex curriculum within a 10-week
training program in teaching one individual with high functioning autism how to think
and behave flexibly in social situations. Multiple measurement tools were utilized, and
analyses within and across the measures revealed inconsistencies, especially with respect to generalization. Although preliminary, this study provided valuable information for subsequent research.
