Effectiveness of Mixed Reality (XR)-Based Interventions in Improving Social Cognition in Children with Level ۱ Autism

This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of mixed reality (XR)-based interventions in improving social cognition among children with Level ۱ Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Tehran Province. Considering the increasing demand for innovative therapeutic tools for neurodevelopmental conditions, XR technology offers immersive, engaging environments that simulate real-life social scenarios in controlled, customizable ways. The research employed a quasi-experimental design with a pretest-posttest control group. Participants included ۲۸ children aged ۸ to ۱۱ years diagnosed with Level ۱ ASD, selected through purposive sampling from clinical and educational centers in Tehran. The experimental group received XR-based social cognition training in ۱۲ sessions over six weeks, while the control group participated in conventional social skills training based on cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Assessment tools included the Social Responsiveness Scale–Second Edition (SRS-۲) and the Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test–Child Version (RMET-C). Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA). Results showed that the XR intervention significantly reduced social impairment and improved emotion recognition, with large effect sizes observed in both measures. These findings suggest that XR-based approaches provide a powerful supplement to traditional methods by enabling children to engage in interactive, gamified learning that enhances social perception and Theory of Mind skills. The study concludes by emphasizing the importance of integrating XR technologies into therapeutic and educational programs for children with ASD.

کلیدواژه ها:

Mixed Reality (XR)-Based Intervention ، Social Cognition ، Level ۱ Autism