Communication Theory Paper: The purpose of the paper is to allow you to compile your own theory. At completion, it should include your idea for your own communication theory, research using at least 2 theories discussed in class, and another theory from another source to substantiate your idea. You may include more theories if you would like but it is not required.

THE ASSIGNMENT INCLUDES THESE ELEMENTS TO BE USED AS HEADINGS IN YOUR PAPER: Introduction to tell what the communication area is and what your theory is about concerning that area. Research - after deciding the area of interest, check to see the current research in that area to see what has already been done. You are looking for a theory to help explain the problem or help connect your idea to the problem. There has to be a research element in this paper for it to meet the requirements of the eportfolio assignment so make sure that you cite the research in the paper. Conclusions - this section joins the research concerning the 3 theories with your communication idea. This is where the theory will be established and supported.

This is the outline of the theory including references. Use more references if you like:

Title: Autism Spectrum Disorder and Communication Theories: An Examination of Symbolic Interactionism, Social Identity Theory, and Uncertainty Reduction Theory

I. Introduction A. Brief overview of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) B. Importance of communication theories in understanding ASD

II. Symbolic Interactionism and ASD A. Definition of Symbolic Interactionism B. Application of Symbolic Interactionism to ASD 1. Interpretation of symbols and meanings in ASD 2. Challenges and unique perspectives C. Research supporting this connection

III. Social Identity Theory and ASD A. Definition of Social Identity Theory B. Application of Social Identity Theory to ASD 1. Social identity formation in individuals with ASD 2. Impact on social interactions and communication C. Research supporting this connection

IV. Uncertainty Reduction Theory and ASD A. Definition of Uncertainty Reduction Theory B. Application of Uncertainty Reduction Theory to ASD 1. Uncertainty in social situations for individuals with ASD 2. Strategies for reducing uncertainty C. Research supporting this connection

V. Conclusion A. Recap of the theories and their relevance to ASD B. Implications for future research and practice

VI. References West, L.W., & Turner, L. H. (2021). Introducing communication theory(7^th edition). McGraw Hill

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders(5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.

Baron-Cohen, S., Leslie, A. M., & Frith, U. (1985). Does the autistic child have a "theory of mind"?Cognition,21(1), 37-46.

Kanner, L. (1943). Autistic disturbances of affective contact.Nervous child,2(3), 217-250.

Tager-Flusberg, H., Paul, R., & Lord, C. (2005). Language and communication in autism. Handbook of autism and pervasive developmental disorders, 1, 335-364.

Cooper, Rosalind, et al. "'I'm Proud to Be a Little Bit Different': The Effects of Autistic Individuals' Perceptions of Autism and Autism Social Identity on Their Collective Self-Esteem."Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, vol. 51, no. 2, Feb. 2021, pp. 704-14.