Children with high-functioning autism spectrum disorders (HFX-ASD) are at heightened risk for a wide rangeof social relationship problems. Specialists in the field of autism suggest the social skill deficits experiencedby people with HFX-ASD are the most difficult aspect of the disorder to overcome. This Phase II project willcontinue the research and development (R&D) of an innovative social skills training program, entitledliS. S. GRIN-HFA'. S.S.GRIN-HFA provides mental health professionals with a unique multi-modal, multicomponentintervention program to enhance the social competencies and relations of children ages eightthrough twelve with HFX-ASD. S.S.GRIN-HFA integrates a structured skill-based curriculum with video,graphic materials (workbooks, social stories), and interactive web-based tools that not only target specificskill sets, but also bridge the intervention setting with home efforts to promote social functioning. DuringPhase II, the training program will be revised and refined based on Phase I results, feedback from thePhase II Advisory Committee, and feedback obtained from school-and community based professionalsserving children with HFX-ASD. Once these program modifications are completed, an efficacy test andproduct evaluation will be conducted with children ages 8-12 with HFX-ASD. When final revisions andmodifications to all product materials for the targeted age group are complete, the feasibility of furthermodifications to program materials (as well as use of existing program materials) for older and youngerchildren with HFX-ASD will be investigated. Phase II findings will be shared with professionals throughpublications and presentations in order to advance the scientific knowledge base regarding effectiveinterventions for children with HFX-ASD as well as to support Phase III commercialization efforts.
