Conceptual Clarification of the Playful Engagement in Social Interaction of Preschool-Aged Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Conceptual Clarification of the Playful Engagement in Social Interaction of Preschool-Aged Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Language: English
Authors: Godin, Julie (ORCID 0000-0002-8345-8396), Freeman, Andrew, Rigby, Patty
Source: Early Child Development and Care. 2019 189(3):430-440.
Availability: Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 530 Walnut Street Suite 850, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Tel: 215-625-8900; Fax: 215-207-0050; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 11
Publication Date: 2019
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Descriptive
Descriptors: Preschool Children, Play, Autism, Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Interaction, Interpersonal Competence, Child Behavior, Affective Behavior, Cues, Nonverbal Communication
DOI: 10.1080/03004430.2017.1324437
ISSN: 0300-4430
Abstract: Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) demonstrate limited playfulness. Their difficulty engaging in meaningful interaction with others renders playful engagement in social interactions a challenge. Although little direct evidence exists regarding the promotion of these children's playful engagement, links can be established with many traits cited in play and social interaction studies. This paper presents the results of a conceptual clarification exercise regarding the key behaviours associated with the construct of playful engagement in preschool-aged children with ASD. Behaviours were identified based on hallmark deficits in early social interactions and play of children with ASD. The analysis revealed the following behaviours: positive affect, engagement, imitation, joint attention, initiation of social interaction, social responsiveness, flexibility, child's laughter in funny situations and giving and reading non-verbal cues. In conclusion, a conceptually coherent stage has been set for exploring the literature regarding interventions to promote the playful engagement of preschool-aged children with ASD.
Abstractor: As Provided
Number of References: 52
Entry Date: 2019
Accession Number: EJ1203889
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) demonstrate limited playfulness. Their difficulty engaging in meaningful interaction with others renders playful engagement in social interactions a challenge. Although little direct evidence exists regarding the promotion of these children's playful engagement, links can be established with many traits cited in play and social interaction studies. This paper presents the results of a conceptual clarification exercise regarding the key behaviours associated with the construct of playful engagement in preschool-aged children with ASD. Behaviours were identified based on hallmark deficits in early social interactions and play of children with ASD. The analysis revealed the following behaviours: positive affect, engagement, imitation, joint attention, initiation of social interaction, social responsiveness, flexibility, child's laughter in funny situations and giving and reading non-verbal cues. In conclusion, a conceptually coherent stage has been set for exploring the literature regarding interventions to promote the playful engagement of preschool-aged children with ASD.
ISSN:0300-4430
DOI:10.1080/03004430.2017.1324437