Social Skills

A number of studies have found socialisation is a relative strength in individuals with Smith-Magenis syndrome compared to communication and daily living skills. This is in contrast to individuals with autism and no genetic syndrome, where the lowest scores are typically found on the socialisation subscale of autism diagnostic measures.

Younger children with Smith-Magenis syndrome have been reported to have age-appropriate social skills; however, this appears to decline with age, suggesting potential strengths in social functioning are subject to developmental influences.

Individuals with Smith-Magenis syndrome may show social preference, or ‘attachment’ to a particular adult over unfamiliar adults and peers.