Teaching social skills to people with autism.

Weiss et al. (2001) wrote a narrative review. They pulled together many ABA tactics that teach social skills to people with autism.

The paper is a map, not a test. It lists adult-led, peer-led, and child-led methods. It also covers scripts, pivotal response training, and group formats.

The review does not give new data. Instead, it gives a menu. The authors say, "Use many tactics, not just one."

They stress mixing approaches. For example, combine peer buddies, short scripts, and pivotal response drills in one program.

Embregts (2000) said almost the same thing one year earlier. Both papers are narrative reviews, so the 2001 piece is a direct update.

Kleinert et al. (2007) later looked at 79 studies. They found most work still uses modeling and praise in schools. The 2001 menu is still relevant, but L et al. show the field has not moved much.

Esposito et al. (2025) turned the menu into a systematic review. They agree ABA packages work, yet warn that skills often fade once treatment stops. The 2001 call for "mix tactics" now comes with a warning: plan extra generalization and maintenance.

You do not need to pick one social-skills program. Borrow from the 2001 list and layer them. Start with peer buddies and short scripts. Add pivotal response drills during natural play. Then follow Esposito et al. (2025) and build maintenance loops from day one.