LE3 .A278 2010

2010

Day, Deborah

Acadia University

Master of Education

Masters

Inclusive Education

Education

Despite the vast research on social programming for autistic adolescents, little research employing a social perspective has been conducted to gain a deeper understanding of autistic teenagers‟ social worlds. The overall image that emerges from the literature is focused within the medical model emphasizing remediation of social differences. This case study counters aspects of the medical model perspective as it explores the dynamic social worlds of four participants ranging in ages from thirteen to fifteen who live in a small town in Nova Scotia. Through small group social sessions autistic adolescents shared their personal social experiences and provided new perspectives on their social needs and social desires. The findings of this study suggest further research is needed to understand the social experiences of autistic youths. A greater awareness of their social worlds is required with consideration and attention being given to their voices.

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https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:174