Autism centered theatre: The use of drama to improve social skills for children on the autism spectrum

<p>This study explored the benefits of a week-long drama camp on the socials skills of children on the autism spectrum through the perspectives of parents and instructors. Data collection included pre- and post-camp questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. The results revealed that daily intensive exposure to drama and theatre can be a viable option to promote the development of social skills among children on the autism spectrum. The activities seemed to promote particular gains in caregiver/peer interaction, adjusting to routines, eye contact, and social perceptions/cues. Additionally, results indicated that children with greater social communication needs and those with more extensive exposure to the arts seemed to make stronger gains in social skills. Finally, the results of this study suggest directions for future studies in the area of using theatre to develop social skills, and highlight the importance of advocating for the inclusion of children on the autism spectrum in theatre programs.</p>

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Arts (MA)

Level thesis:degree_level

Open Access Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Special Education

Year dc:date.available

2014

Author dc:creator

• Rhoades, Olivia

Contributors dc:contributor

• Ana Claudia Harten
• Bill Cupples
• Patricia Zimmer

• Autism
• Drama
• Social Skills
• Special Needs
• Theater
• Theatre
• Arts and Humanities
• Education

Repository record dc:identifier

https://commons.emich.edu/theses/866

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:commons.emich.edu:theses-2244