Overview

The goal of this interventional study was to examine the effectiveness and mechanism of online peer companion intervention (OPCI) on the social abilities and mental health of ASD children. The main questions it aims to answer are:

1. Whether OPCI is effective on the social abilities and mental health of ASD children;
2. What impact does OPCI have on the social abilities and mental health of ordinary children;
3. What impact does OPCI have on the mental health of both children's parents;
4. What are the mechanisms of OPCI on ASD children.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria of ASD Children:

• 7-15 years old and diagnosed as mild ASD;
• Basic ability to speak independently and fluently communicate with peers;
• Could use mobile phones, tablets, computers, or other electronic devices for this online intervention.

Exclusion Criteria of ASD Children:

• Diagnosed as moderate or severe ASD;
• Unable or unwilling to communicate with peers independently
• No phones or other alternative electronic devices for the intervention Inclusion

Criteria of Ordinary Children:

• 9-18 years old with normal development, no diagnosis of ASD, learning disabilities, ADHD, and other mental disorders;
• Lively and outgoing, able to assume the role of topic organizer in communication with peers;
• Could use mobile phones, tablets, computers, or other electronic devices for this online intervention.

Exclusion Criteria of Ordinary Children

• Diagnosis of ASD or other neurodevelopmental and mental disorders;
• Introverted or unwilling to play with peer ASD children
• No phones or other alternative electronic devices for the intervention