(Lantz, 2014) Children with autism statistically have shown that they do not entirely grasp the concept that others have their own thoughts and point of views on certain topics. They can generally understand simple emotions of others but struggle with understanding the more complex emotions like surprise. Difficulties in developing Theory of Mind Skills can help explain the social challenges that define ASD. (Lantz, 2014) Lacking the ability to read social clues can have a significant effect on an individual’s social development. They may or may not understand the many unwritten social rules that exist, even simple rules and as a result they may lose out on essential social interactions or become excluded. The child’s lack of understanding of social cues could cause major issues in terms of their social development at certain ages. Theory of mind (the ability to attribute mental states to self and others in order to understand and predict behavior (Lantz, 2014)) is an area of weakness for those who have been diagnosed with …show more content…
The issue with social impairment is extremely complex because even for some who are considered autistic, it can be difficult for them to explain their own social struggles to someone unfamiliar with them. (Foden, 2011) Most typical individuals are not aware of their own ability to interpret social cues, as it comes so naturally to most so understanding those who actually have to work at interpreting social cues is difficult. In Erikson’s stages of development, one of the most important periods for social development is ages 6-12 Industry vs. Inferiority. At this stage the child’s peer group will become more significant in that it will become a large source of the child’s self esteem. (McLeod, 2013) For a child who struggles with social interactions this can be a tough time for them. Trying to pick up on social cues from others is a real struggle for individuals with autism, so trying to get an idea of whether or not a certain behavior or action is generally acceptable will be especially difficult and can have a major impact at this stage of development. Children should be encouraged for their initiative so they begin to feel confident in their own abilities. “If this initiative is not encouraged, if it is restricted by parents or teacher, then the child begins to feel inferior, doubting his own abilities and therefore may not reach his or her potential.” (McLeod, 2013) For children with autism, this