Inside Out: What Makes a Person with Social Cognitive Deficits

This book introduces a framework of how to more specifically understand the deficits of persons with social cognitive disabilities (Asperger Syndrome, High-Functioning Autism, Pervasive-Developmental Disorders-Not Otherwise Specified and Non-Verbal Learning Disabilities.  The I LAUGH model is presented, which describes many of the key areas of cognition and related skills that are weak in persons with “social skills deficits.”  Michelle’s work encourages us to realize that teaching students “social skills” first requires us to understand more about the supporting social cognitive components and then work with students to increase their social thinking concepts and related social skills.  Michelle’s ideas are clearly articulated and supported by examples from her clinical experiences.  Worksheets and sample IEP goals are provided to demonstrate how to teach these concepts.  Humor is emphasized and rubber chickens are show to have their place in the teaching process!