A critical review of assessment targets and methods for social skills excesses and deficits for children with autism spectrum disorders

A substantial research literature is beginning to develop regarding social skills excesses and deficits for children with autism spectrum disorders. These developments are likely to continue given the increasing recognition that these behaviors are among the most critical core symptoms of these disorders. A review is provided of developments in the field with respect to the social excesses and deficits that are most critical for this population of children. A discussion of direct observation and scaling methods used to do these evaluations along with a discussion of strengths and weaknesses of these methods is provided. A discussion of the current status and potential future developments of the area is also covered.