Reactions to ostracism in adolescents with autism spectrum conditions.

Researchers used a computer game called Cyberball to mimic peer rejection.

Teens with autism and typical teens played catch online with two fake players.

The fake players stopped throwing the ball to the teen, creating social exclusion.

The team then asked how the teen felt and measured mood, anxiety, and social needs.

Both groups said their social needs were hurt and anxiety went up.

Surprisingly, mood stayed flat for the autism group while typical teens felt worse.

In short, ostracism upset autistic teens inside, but you would not see it on mood scales.

Trimmer et al. (2017) ran the same Cyberball game with adults who have autism.

They saw higher heart rate and lower mood, showing the hurt grows with age.

Chevallier et al. (2012) helps explain the flat mood: autistic teens often report less social pleasure overall.

Together the papers say the sting is real, yet teens may not show or tell you.

Do not trust mood checklists alone after peer rejection. Ask about anxiety and feelings of belonging. Watch for quiet signs of stress like fidgeting or avoiding the lunch room. Pair social-skills groups with peer buddy programs so real classmates include the student, not just therapists.