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Embedding Interests of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder: a Quality Review

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Abstract

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) characteristically demonstrate interest in a restricted range of activities. Embedding interests into the learning environment is a strategy used to establish motivation and promote participation in alternative activities. This review includes an evaluation of the quality of single-case and group-based research on embedding interests for individuals with ASD. Twenty studies with 79 participants were appraised according to two quality rubrics. Evidence was analyzed overall and within categories of dependent variables. Primary outcomes included social/communication skills and task-engagement/accuracy/productivity. Results show insufficient support for use of this intervention according to one rubric and mixed but sufficient support overall according to an alternative rubric. Most research support targets social or communication skills. Implications for practice are identified.

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Acknowledgements

The contents of this manuscript were developed in partial fulfillment of a doctoral dissertation completed by the first author.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, 1776 University Ave, Honolulu, HI, 96822, USA

    Jennifer Ninci

  2. Purdue University, 100 N. University St, West Lafayette, IN, 47907-2098, USA

    Mandy Rispoli

  3. Texas A & M University, 4225 Texas A & M University, College Station, TX, 77845-4225, USA

    Mack D. Burke

  4. University of Texas at San Antonio, 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez Blvd, San Antonio, TX, 78207, USA

    Leslie C. Neely

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  1. Jennifer Ninci
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  2. Mandy Rispoli
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  3. Mack D. Burke
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  4. Leslie C. Neely
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Correspondence to Jennifer Ninci.

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Ninci, J., Rispoli, M., Burke, M.D. et al. Embedding Interests of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder: a Quality Review. Rev J Autism Dev Disord 5, 15–28 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40489-017-0120-6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40489-017-0120-6

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