First impressions are very important. The factors that contribute to first impressions, including verbal dialogue and non-verbal mannerisms, are characteristic impairments for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Importantly, even individuals with ASD who score normally on standardised tests of language still may have different speech patterns or other non-verbal traits compared to individuals without ASD, and these differences potentially compromise the ability of autistic individuals to make positive first impressions. This is especially important when considered in contexts such as a job interview. The two central aims of the current study are to determine: (i) whether ratings of quality of speech, based on brief audio samples, differ for individuals with and without ASD who have scored within normal limits for language skills; and (ii) whether these ratings correlate with standardised measures of language and social communication. Three 5-second audio clips will be randomly collected from existing recordings of mock interviews conducted with 40 adolescents aged 13-18 with and without ASD. Audio clips will then be presented in random order to naïve listeners who will be asked to make communication quality ratings based on specific, previously established criteria. Ratings of the two groups will be compared using independent samples t-tests and will also be correlated with language and social communication scores. Results may provide information regarding the influence of verbal and non-verbal abilities in first impressions of autistic individuals compared to controls.
