Unlocking Social Understanding: Predictive Coding with Dr. Leslie Carver

This week on the Autism Weekly Podcast, host Jeffrey Skibitsky welcomed Dr. Leslie Carver, an expert in brain development and social cognition. 

Dr. Leslie Carver, professor from University of California San Diego, shared groundbreaking insights that bring clarity to the unique experiences of autistic individuals and offered guidance to their families and caregivers. 

Supporting Predictable Development in Autism 

One key theme Dr. Carver explored is predictive coding, a theory that refers to the way we all make guesses about what will happen in different situations, refine those guesses based on new experiences, and develop the ability to adapt quickly to changes. However, for people with autism, this process often works differently, particularly in the realm of social interactions. 

According to Dr. Carver, while the physical world (like knowing a ball will make a sound when it hits the wall) is relatively straightforward, the social world is less predictable. Conversations, facial expressions, and interactions often depend on variables beyond their control. For autistic kids, navigating this inherently unpredictable environment can become a significant challenge, making social interactions feel like a constant process of trial and error. 

Why Predictive Coding Matters for Parents 

For parents raising autistic children, understanding predictive coding offers a valuable perspective. The differences in how autistic children process situations may explain certain behaviors, such as a desire for structure or a preference for routine. This difference doesn’t mean an inability to engage socially; instead, autistic individuals may excel when given the chance to process social situations in a way that works for them. 

Practical tip for parents: 

• Predictability Reduces Anxiety: Offer clear, structured expectations for social activities or new environments. For example, prepare your child by discussing what events might occur during a family gathering or doctor’s visit. 

• Break Down Social Rules: Teach social cues step-by-step. Focus on helping your child recognize facial expressions, tone shifts, or body language patterns in manageable increments. 

The Role of Early Development 

Another area Dr. Carver emphasized is the importance of early developmental milestones. Often, autism is diagnosed around age two or three, but characteristics can become evident earlier, particularly in siblings of autistic children. Her studies suggest that differences in motor control, eye contact, or attention-shifting patterns might be early indicators. These challenges, while subtle, can shape how children engage with the world as they grow. 

For instance, neurotypical babies generally experience a developmental pattern of focusing on eyes, then mouths, and eventually returning to eyes to decode social cues. However, research shows that babies later diagnosed with autism may not return to consistent eye engagement. These findings highlight the importance of intervention programs designed to support emerging social and cognitive skills. 

Practical tip for parents: 

• Encourage Eye Contact Naturally: Use games, songs, or routines to make eye contact comfortable and engaging. Avoid pressuring your child, as that can make the process aversive instead of positive. 

• Observe Developmental Progress: Seek evaluations early if you notice your child isn’t reaching typical developmental milestones, such as responding to their name or imitating sounds and gestures. 

Building Social Understanding for Long-Term Growth 

Dr. Carver highlighted that many autistic adults who expertly manage social interactions do so through structured strategies and learned rules. While these interactions may not feel instinctive, they are incredibly meaningful and empowering. To support your child’s long-term growth, it’s essential to introduce tools and techniques that help them develop independence while respecting their individual pace. 

Why Autism Research Matters 

Dr. Carver emphasized the critical role of research in shaping how we approach autism-friendly environments and teaching strategies. Her lab’s findings, for example, open doors to understanding how autistic children learn from contingent responses and adapt to unpredictable environments over time. Yet, she encouraged listeners to critically evaluate the science they encounter to ensure it is both reliable and actionable. 

For parents and caregivers, investing time in understanding cutting-edge autism research means opening the door to approaches that can empower your child’s growth, strengthen independence, and improve quality of life. 

Looking Ahead 

Dr. Carver’s vision for future research is bold. She hopes to follow children with autism longitudinally to map how their cognitive and social skills evolve. By focusing on early intervention and listening to both autistic individuals and their families, her work promises to advance not only scientific understanding but also practical tools for families everywhere. 

Raising an autistic child is a unique, rewarding, and challenging experience, but with insights from thought leaders like Dr. Carver, families can feel equipped to make a positive impact. By creating predictable environments, breaking down social rules, and using reinforcement wisely, you’ll be helping your child thrive in a world full of possibilities.