Social Competence Intervention Program (SCIP): A Drama-Based Intervention for Youth on the Autism Spectrum (Book and CD)

SCIP is a 16-session, drama-based intervention for youth ages 8-14 on the autism spectrum. The authors blend current research from neuropsychology and information from the field of creative drama to help students accurately perceive and respond to nonverbal aspects of social interactions, such as facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice. Students are asked to participate in process dramas and take on roles that explore various outcomes. During role plays, students learn to divide complex social interactions into sequential parts, discuss the emotions involved, and act out a variety of possible responses. They also learn practical skills for dealing with teasing and understanding complex social cues.

Laura A. Guli, Ph.D., is currently a licensed psychologist in the state of Texas. In addition to presenting at national conferences, she has authored several academic articles and book chapters. Dr. Guli continues to be interested in working with and learning more about children with autistic spectrum disorders and related disabilities. Alison D. Wilkinson, Ph.D., has presented research related to social competence at several national and international conferences. She has received specialized training in the assessment of autism spectrum disorders. Dr. Wilkinson is continually inspired by the wit and perseverance of children with social competence disorders. Margaret Semrud-Clikeman, Ph.D., has published more than 30 articles, 40 chapters, and four books. She and her students developed and piloted the Social Competence Intervention Program at the University of Texas at Austin. Dr. Semrud-Clikeman is currently a professor at Michigan State University with a joint appointment in psychology and psychiatry.