This cluster shows how the PEERS program teaches teens and young adults with autism how to make friends and talk to people. Moms and dads learn the steps too, so they can coach their kids at home. Studies say families feel calmer and kids go to more hang-outs after class. A BCBA can use these lessons to help clients practice real-life chatting and keep the new skills going.
Common questions from BCBAs and RBTs
PEERS has versions for preschoolers, adolescents, young adults, and college students. There is also a version for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in higher education settings.
The standard adolescent PEERS program runs for 16 weekly sessions, each about 90 minutes. Preschool and young adult versions vary in length. Booster sessions can be added after the main program.
Yes. Studies have shown gains in social knowledge and friendship quality for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities who completed PEERS in college settings.
Yes. A Polish study found that hybrid PEERS delivery produced large, lasting social skills gains for autistic teens, comparable to fully in-person delivery.
Parents attend a separate coaching group during each PEERS session. They learn the same skills and practice coaching their teen through homework assignments at home. Parent involvement is a core part of what makes the program work.