The autistic child's theory of mind: a case of specific developmental delay.
In previous tests of the lowest level of a "theory of mind" (i.e. first-order belief attribution), 80% of autistic children were found to be impaired relative to a non-autistic mentally-handicapped control group. The present study examines the 20% of autistic children who have a theory of mind at the lowest level, and tests their ability to use a theory of mind at higher levels (i.e. second-order belief attribution). This autistic subgroup, in comparison to Down's Syndrome and normal control groups, was found to be severely impaired at the higher level. Autism is discussed as a possible case of specific developmental delay.
Baron-Cohen
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Department of Psychology, University of London, U.K.
D000293:Adolescent; D001321:Autistic Disorder / Q000523:psychology*; D002648:Child; D003071:Cognition; D004314:Down Syndrome / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D008568:Memory; D008960:Models, Psychological; D012938:Social Perception