Analisis Interaksi Sosial pada Anak Autis Di SLB Negeri Mandailing Natal

Abstract

This study aims to analyze social interactions in autistic children at Mandailing Natal State Special School. Social interaction is a relationship between individuals, groups, or environments that can influence each other, eliciting responses and creating dynamic social relationships. It is an aspect of development often hampered in autistic children. Therefore, it is important to understand the forms of their social interactions, the factors that influence them, and the aspects of social interactions. The research method used was qualitative with a descriptive approach. Informants in this study consisted of three autistic children, their homeroom teachers, and three parents. Data collection techniques used in this study included interviews, observation, and documentation. The results show that the forms of social interactions of autistic children at this school exhibit diverse characteristics depending on the severity of autism, the teacher's approach, and the support of the social environment. Autistic children tend to exhibit limited social interactions. They interact more frequently with teachers or parents than with their peers. Interactions tend to be one-way, such as answering questions without showing interest in continuing the conversation. Factors influencing children's social interactions include the teacher's and therapist's approach, the school's social environment, and the child's individual characteristics. Mandailing Natal State Special School continues to strive to improve the quality of its services through teacher training, collaboration with external parties (such as psychologists and therapists), and holding inclusive social activities. Strengthening therapy programs and actively involving families will be a future focus to support the more comprehensive social development of children with autism.