Can Drama-Based Therapy Improve Social Skills in Autism?
9 Oct 2026
A meta-analysis published in October 2026 pooled 16 controlled studies with 703 children and teenagers and found that drama-based programmes had a medium positive effect on social skills in autism (g = 0.54) [1]. Results varied a lot between studies, so this is a promising option to consider within a wider plan, not a sure route to better social skills [1,2].
Can Drama-Based Therapy Improve Social Skills in Autism at a glance
- What was reviewed: 16 controlled studies, 703 autistic children and adolescents [1].
- Result: a medium effect on social skills, g = 0.54 (95% CI 0.21 to 0.88) [1].
- Catch: heterogeneity was substantial (I² 76%), so effects differed a lot by programme and setting [1].
- Wider picture: social skills training and CBT show modest to moderate benefits too [2,3].
What is drama-based intervention for autism?
Drama-based programmes teach social skills through role play, improvisation, storytelling, theatre games and rehearsal. Instead of being told how to start a conversation or read a face, a child practises it in a structured, playful setting with peers and a trained facilitator.
Social communication differences are a core feature of autism, so many families look for ways to practise skills like turn-taking, understanding emotions and joining in a group.
What did the 2026 meta-analysis find?
The researchers searched five databases and included 16 controlled studies. Pooled together, drama-based interventions improved social skills by a medium amount, with Hedges' g of 0.54 (95% CI 0.21 to 0.88). A confidence interval that wide means the true effect could be small or large [1].
The studies differed a great deal (I² about 76%). The type of drama approach, the setting and who delivered the programme all changed the size of the effect. Age did not significantly change it, and neither did the amount of treatment [1].
How does it compare with other social skills approaches?
A 2025 meta-analysis of 17 randomised or quasi-randomised trials of social skills training in children aged 3 to 18 found small to moderate gains in social communication, reciprocity and joint attention. The authors say it is best seen as one part of an individualised plan, not a stand-alone answer [2].
A meta-analysis of seven randomised trials (214 children) found that CBT improved social skills in autistic children. The authors point out that most of these trials were designed to measure anxiety, and social skills were a secondary outcome, so the data are limited [3].
| Approach | Studies | What was found |
|---|---|---|
| Drama-based programmes | 16 studies, 703 children | Medium effect (g = 0.54); high variability |
| Social skills training | 17 trials | Small to moderate gains |
| CBT | 7 trials, 214 children | Improved social skills; limited data |
Social skills approaches for autistic children, from three meta-analyses [1,2,3].
What should parents keep in mind?
First, social skills are one area of development. A good plan looks at communication, learning, sensory needs, behaviour and the family's own goals. Second, a medium average effect does not tell you what will happen for your child. Some children enjoy group role play. Others find it overwhelming, and will do better in a one-to-one format.
Third, ask how progress will be measured. The strongest programmes set clear, specific goals, such as greeting a classmate or asking for a turn, and check them over time.
What are the limits of this evidence?
Heterogeneity was high, and the review pooled very different programmes under one label [1]. The summary does not tell us how long benefits last or whether skills carry over from the drama room to the playground. The social skills training review also notes that results depend on the type of programme, who takes part and how faithfully it is delivered [2]. None of the three reviews shows what a particular child can expect.
Getting help in Delhi
Brain Bridge Clinic in Safdarjung Enclave, New Delhi, runs an autism clinic that begins with a structured assessment of communication, behaviour, sensory needs and development, drawing on your child's history and observations from home and school. Based on that, the team can discuss therapies such as social skills training, behaviour therapy and parent training, and coordinate them. If you have concerns about your child's social development, you can book an assessment and bring any school or earlier reports.
Related pages: Autism Spectrum Support, Social Skills Training, CBT.
Frequently asked questions
Does drama therapy help autistic children?
A 2026 meta-analysis of 16 studies found a medium average improvement in social skills (g = 0.54), but the results varied widely between programmes [1].
Is social skills training effective for autism?
A meta-analysis of 17 trials found small to moderate improvements and recommended it as one part of an individualised plan [2].
Does CBT help with social difficulties in autism?
A meta-analysis of seven randomised trials found improved social skills, but most trials were designed around anxiety, so the evidence on social outcomes is limited [3].
At what age should social skills support begin?
The meta-analyses included children and teenagers, and the 2026 review found age did not significantly change the effect [1]. A clinician can advise on what suits your child.
Caring for my child is wearing me out. Where can I get support?
Caregiver stress is real, so tell your clinician. If you feel overwhelmed or unsafe, call Tele-MANAS on 14416 (free, 24/7), or 112 in an emergency.
References
- Geng K, He Y. Effectiveness and Influencing Factors of Drama-Based Interventions for Social Skills in Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Meta-Analysis. Research on child and adolescent psychopathology. 2026;54(6). doi:10.1007/s10802-026-01504-4. PMID 42900390.
- Alahmari FS, Alhabbad AA, Alshamrani HA, et al. Effectiveness of social skills training interventions for children with autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Saudi medical journal. 2025;46(3):226-237. doi:10.15537/smj.2025.46.3.20240788. PMID 40096975.
- You XR, Gong XR, Guo MR, et al. Cognitive behavioural therapy to improve social skills in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder: A meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Journal of affective disorders. 2024;344:8-17. doi:10.1016/j.jad.2023.10.008. PMID 37802322.