This vital new book presents effective strategies to tackle the specific difficulties in social interaction and communication that are experienced by adolescents with Asperger Syndrome (AS).

Focusing on the development of interaction skills through teaching social competence, the authors explain how to design an effective social skills intervention programme whose primary objective is successful peer interaction. They describe the methodology, philosophy and science underpinning their approach and include a template for a sample course currently administered over six months. Guidance is given on what resources to choose from the wide range of available intervention programmes, and many case study examples are also provided. The authors outline session formats, possible problems and solutions, and emphasise the significance of the therapist's attitude and the role of parents in building social confidence.

This highly practical book is an excellent resource for anyone involved with designing and delivering socialisation training to adolescents with AS, from parents and teachers to counsellors and therapists.

John Harpur was a lecturer in the Department of Computer Science at the National University of Ireland, Maynooth. His research included a multidisciplinary project on Emotional Intelligence and Asperger Syndrome. Maria Lawlor is the consultant child and adolescent psychiatrist in the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service, Navan, and lectures in the Department of Psychiatry, Trinity College, Dublin. Michael Fitzgerald is the Henry Marsh Professor of child and adolescent psychiatry at the Child and Family Centre at Trinity College, Dublin. Together they wrote Succeeding in College with Asperger Syndrome: A Student Guide, also published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers.

Introduction. 1. Background Issues in Social Skills Interventions. 2. Current Thinking on Asperger Syndrome. 3. Communication and Language Issues. 4. Assembling an Intervention. 5. Video Modelling and Script Models. 6. Format of the Sessions. 7. Problems and Solution Tips. 8. Session Plans and Materials. 9. Evaluation Issues. Appendix 1: Relaxation Exercise. Appendix 2: Banned Phrases Sheet. Appendix 3: Action Plan Sheet. Appendix 4: Getting Everyone to Interact Game. Appendix 5: Charades - Ideal for AS Role Plays. Appendix 6: A Sample Script. Appendix 7: Social Effects Questionnaire. References. Index.