Assessment of interpersonal interactions and relationships

Assessment of interpersonal interactions and relationships involves systematically evaluating an individual’s social communication skills and relational dynamics using a combination of observations, interviews, and standardized self-report questionnaires. This process should make best use of existing documentation regarding personal, educational, occupational, social, and communication functioning, and it should also assess any coexisting conditions—such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and global delays or intellectual disability—especially when working with autistic adults.

Maintaining both basic and complex interpersonal interactions depends on an individual's physical and mental functioning, social skills, and the specific context in which they interact with others. Tools like the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) are often used to measure aspects such as joint attention, responsiveness, and social reciprocity. For parents, understanding these assessments is crucial, as they form the foundation for individualized intervention plans that target both strengths and areas for improvement. The data gathered help professionals tailor interventions—such as social skills training, relationship-focused therapies, and evidence-based behavioral interventions—to ensure that the child or adult receives comprehensive support that enhances overall quality of life.