Brief Report: Sociometric Status and Behavioral Characteristicsof Peer Nominated Buddies for a Child with Autism

摘要

We examined social and behavioral correlatesof children selected by their peers to serve as peer buddiesfor an unfamiliar child with autism (CWA). Participantswere 293 children from two public elementary schools whocompleted social status, behavioral, and peer buddy nom-ination measures. Peer buddy nominations for a CWA wererelated to: (a) perceived unpopularity; (b) being viewed ashelpful and smart; and (c) lacking influence regardingpopularity within the classroom. In contrast, peer buddynominations for a typical boy were related to being viewedas popular, helpful, and self-confident. Students may selecta social niche for CWA based on principles of peer horn-ophily. Limitations and suggestions for future research arediscussed.