Can you help? Social Skills and Reciprocal Behavior among Children with and without SLD/ADHD

Abstract

Abstract The study aims to compare the reciprocal behavior, while interacting with a virtual-player in a computer game, between children with typical-development (TD) and children with specific-learning-disabilities (SLD) and/or with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and examine the correlation to social skills. The study included 120 children (43 SLD/ADHD, 77 TD) ages 9-11 years. Subjects filled out self-reported questionnaires focusing on social skills and reciprocity and played a computer game in which such social situations arise. Results showed no difference between the groups in self-reported social skills or reciprocity. However, the children’ actual reciprocal behavior while playing the game revealed different results: the SLD/ADHD group exhibited higher selfish (help others out of concern for self) and lower altruistic (help others out of concern for others) reciprocity compared to the TD group. A correlation was found between the self-reported social skills and reciprocity, as well as to actual reciprocal-patterns reflected in the games played.