Autistic traits and social functioning in neurotypicals : a literature review

• Main Authors: Cheng, Ethel Sing Yee, Pang, Jeannie
• Other Authors: Xu Hong
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2017
• Subjects: DRNTU::Social sciences
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/70624
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

To investigate the effects of autistic traits on social functioning in neurotypicals, we conducted a thorough review on the existing literature on autism-impaired social functions, such as personality, face perception, emotional abilities, and social cognition. We gathered that the extent to which autistic traits affect the social functioning of neurotypicals depends on the levels of autistic traits. We further discussed the links between various domains and research gaps for a holistic understanding of this topic. Through this review, we hope to (1) increase the awareness of autistic traits in the general population as neurotypicals may exhibit high levels of autistic traits, and (2) encourage therapists and interventionists to consider the different domains and strategies when developing intervention plans to help clients with autism attain a higher level of social functioning.