Exploring the Feasibility of Social Skills Programs for Autistic Youth Through Virtual Reality

Many autistic individuals may desire support and services primarily in the areas of adaptive functioning and social well-being throughout their lifetime. There is a need for community-informed and person-centered social programs targeted for autistic adolescents and adults. New technology, such as virtual reality (VR), is being researched to assess the feasibility of providing therapeutic services to autistic individuals. This qualitative study aims to better understand and explore the perceptions of parents and autistic adolescents regarding social development and thoughts around social skills interventions delivered through technologies such as VR. Eight autistic adolescents between the ages of 12 to 17, and five parents participated across five focus groups. The focus group interviews were semi-structured, and qualitative data analysis was conducted through an open thematic approach and inductive coding process. Seven primary themes with sub-themes were identified throughout the focus group interview discussions: Social Skills of the participating autistic adolescents as reported by their parents and by self-report, Family Dynamics affecting social relationships within the family, Social Skills Goals both groups hoped to develop and improve, the existence and quality of In-Person vs. Online Friendships, Experience/Comfort With Technology, Openness to Virtual Environments, and Concerns for Virtual Environments. Researchers identified these themes across both parent and adolescent focus groups. This study provides guidance to the research community on investigating different innovative approaches for offering a social program that is supported by autistic individuals.