Is social cognitive training efficient in autism? A pilot single-case study using the RC2S+ program

ABSTRACT

In high-functioning autism, deficits in emotional processing and theory of mind are relevant to understanding the particularities of social functioning. Here we used a multiple baseline and ABA single-case design to assess the efficacy of an individualized social cognitive training program using both pen-and-paper and computerized materials for an 18-year old patient. After the treatment phase, we found significant improvement in both emotional processes and theory of mind. These results provide further significant data showing that therapeutic tools based on digital relational simulation are a promising way for helping people with autism to compensate for their impaired social functioning.

KEYWORDS:

• High-functioning autism
• emotion recognition
• theory of mind
• social cognitive training
• digital relational simulation

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank Kim Barrett for editing the manuscript and Professor George Michael for his invaluable assistance in statistical analysis.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.