Object-centered family interactions for young autistic children: a diary study.

Area of Science:

• Developmental Psychology
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Autism Spectrum Disorder Research

Background:

• Autistic children often prefer object interaction over social interaction.
• Limited research exists on object-centered family interactions involving autistic children.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore object-centered family interactions in young autistic children.
• To identify factors influencing these interactions.
• To inform designs promoting family engagement.

Main Methods:

• Diary study involving six families with young autistic children.
• Onsite video recording and subsequent coding using a social interaction behavior scheme.
• Qualitative data analysis of diary entries and videos.

Main Results:

• Ongoing challenges in initiating and sustaining family interactions were observed.
• Parent-led interaction with child confirmation was the most common pattern.
• Daily necessities were identified as key objects facilitating interaction.

Conclusions:

• Object-centered interactions present unique dynamics in families with autistic children.
• Daily objects can serve as valuable tools to enhance family engagement.
• Findings suggest opportunities for tangible design interventions in human-computer interaction.