How do we ensure that the lives of children with autistic traits are not harmed by rejection? We know that young children with autistic traits are more likely to experience rejection and non-acceptance, even when the traits are at a low level. Our study identified a particularly vulnerable group of young children with autistic traits: those who are also aggressive and disruptive. Children with autistic traits who also have behavioral problems need the most support with their peer relationships. Some programs focus on reducing children’s behavior problems, especially when the problems are above and beyond the autistic traits that most convincingly predicted poor relationships in our study. In many cases, children with autistic traits can and do have friendships and experience acceptance. Our findings suggest many opportunities for improving the relationships of children with autistic traits.

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