AI-Assisted Social Skills Training for Preschool Children with ASD: A Study on Early Psychological Interventions

Suyi Duan

James Cook University, Central Region, Singapore, 387380

Abstract

Early behavioural and psychological interventions are crucial for supporting the social development of preschool children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as such interventions have a significant impact on their future development. Despite increasing recognition of the importance of these interventions, there remains a notable gap in research concerning the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in delivering social skills training to children with ASD. This study investigates the potential of AI technologies to enhance the effectiveness of social skills development programmes for preschool children with ASD within early intervention frameworks. To address this gap, a systematic literature review (SLR) was undertaken to compile and analyse existing studies on AI-supported interventions designed to promote the social abilities of young children with ASD. The study examines the role of emerging technologies, including virtual reality, machine learning, and interactive platforms, in fostering improved social engagement and communication among this population. The review highlights that AI-based educational activities contribute to improved learning experiences by offering timely, supportive, and individualised instruction for children with ASD. These approaches enable immediate feedback and practical application of social learning scenarios, leading to positive outcomes in both social competence and behavioural adjustment. Nonetheless, challenges persist regarding accessibility, cultural adaptation, and the long-term sustainability of these technologies. The study concludes that AI holds significant promise in supporting the early stages of structured psychological interventions for children with ASD, particularly in enhancing social skills training and contributing to better quality of life. Further research is necessary to advance these AI-driven interventions and to examine their practical integration into therapeutic practices.

Preschool Children, Social Skills, Artificial Intelligence, Psychological Intervention, Autism Spectrum Disorder