Development of a Social Communication Skills Intervention Using Video Modeling and Spherical Video-Based Virtual Reality for High Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder Youth: A Preliminary Study

Cognitive and behavioral techniques have been found effective in teaching social communication skills to high functioning autism spectrum disorder (HFASD) youth, yet little research has explored their integration into video-based instructions like video modeling (VM) and spherical video-based virtual reality (SVVR). We developed a social communication skills intervention by integrating psychoeducation, deep breathing technique, first-person modeling, third-person modeling and skill rehearsal into VM and SVVR. This preliminary study aimed at evaluating the user experience of the intervention content. Ten HFASD youths and five experts went through 5 sessions of learning social communication skills via VM and skill rehearsals using SVVR. Upon completion, they went through semi-structured interviews about their user experience. Results revealed that psychoeducation was perceived as clear and practical, while the combination of first-person modeling and third-person modeling techniques helped them understand the message from different perspectives. The relaxation technique was deemed helpful, while SVVR skill rehearsal was viewed as realistic and immersive but less interactive. Suggestions for improvement included interactive SVVR features and inclusion of homework and parents’ involvement. Our findings underscore the importance of integrating cognitive and behavioral techniques into VM and SVVR for HFASD intervention, shedding light on their practical application and potential benefits. SVVR emerged as a promising platform for skill rehearsal due to its immersive nature. This study contributes valuable insights for future research and practice in utilizing VM and SVVR for social communication skills training in HFASD.