What is a Social Story?

Social Stories are a social learning tool that supports the safe and meaningful exchange of information between parents, professionals, and people with autism of all ages. The people who develop Social Stories are referred to as Authors, and they work on behalf of a child, adolescent, or adult with autism, the Audience.

Authors follow a defined process that begins with gathering information, discovering a topic that ‘fits’ the Audience, and the development of personalized text and illustration. Most frequently associated with short, simple Stories, there are also Social Articles for use with older or more advanced individuals. The Social Story Definition and ten defining characteristics (The Social Story Criteria) guide the development of every Story and result a patient, respectful, and unassuming quality that is the hallmark of the approach. It is that quality that distinguishes genuine Social Stories from social scripts, skill checklists, or ‘social stories’ that do not meet the current the definition.

There is only one definition for the term ‘Social Story’:

Recognizing that every human experience and perspective is unique and valid, and that social impairments and their solutions are shared, a Social Story is a process that results in a Story or an alternate solution. Each Story accurately describes a personally relevant topic (often a context, skill, achievement, or concept) according to ten defining criteria. These criteria guide Story research, development, and implementation to ensure an overall patient and supportive quality and a format, voice, content, and learning experience that is descriptive, meaningful, respectful, and physically, socially, and emotionally safe for the Story audience (a child, adolescent, or adult

What follows is a longer definition/description of Social Stories in practice:

Recognizing that every human experience and perspective is unique and valid, Social Stories are a process designed to address shared social challenges and foster mutual understanding. They result in a carefully crafted Story or an alternate, supportive solution. Each Social Story accurately describes a personally relevant topic (such as a context, skill, achievement, or concept) according to ten defining criteria. These criteria guide the research, development, and implementation of Stories to ensure they are descriptive, meaningful, respectful, and safe—physically, socially, and emotionally—for the Story Audience, whether a child, adolescent, or adult.

Social Stories benefit both the individual and those in their care network. For the Story Audience, they offer clarity, predictability, and support to navigate complex social situations. For caregivers, they provide a tool to build understanding, reduce anxiety, and encourage positive interactions, fostering a more collaborative and compassionate environment for all.

Additional Social Story Information:

Where did Social Stories come from?
The History of Social Stories

Check your knowledge of Social Stories
The Social Story Quiz and Answers to The Social Story Quiz

Is THIS a Social Story?
It is NOT a Social Story if… An initial screening instrument

How the Social Story Criteria keep pace with experience and research
Social Stories 10.0 – 10.2 Comparison Chart