The effectiveness of social stories on decreasing disruptive behaviors of children with autism: three case studies

J Autism Dev Disord. 2008 Oct;38(9):1689-96. doi: 10.1007/s10803-008-0551-0. Epub 2008 Mar 29.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of social stories on decreasing the disruptive behaviors of children with autism. Social stories were created for three participants, ages 7 and 9, to decrease three target disruptive behaviors, using a loud voice in class, chair tipping, and cutting in lunch line. Using a multiple-baseline across participants design, social stories were implemented, and direct observations of participants' target behaviors were conducted three times per week. The present study findings suggest that the use of properly constructed social stories without additional behavioral management interventions may be effective in decreasing the disruptive behaviors of children with autism.

MeSH terms

  • Attention Deficit and Disruptive Behavior Disorders* / epidemiology
  • Attention Deficit and Disruptive Behavior Disorders* / prevention & control
  • Attention Deficit and Disruptive Behavior Disorders* / psychology
  • Autistic Disorder / epidemiology*
  • Autistic Disorder / psychology*
  • Child
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Narration*
  • Observer Variation
  • Social Environment*
  • Verbal Behavior*
  • Wechsler Scales