Measuring theory of mind in children. Psychometric properties of the ToM Storybooks.
Although research on Theory-of-Mind (ToM) is often based on single task measurements, more comprehensive instruments result in a better understanding of ToM development. The ToM Storybooks is a new instrument measuring basic ToM-functioning and associated aspects. There are 34 tasks, tapping various emotions, beliefs, desires and mental-physical distinctions. Four studies on the validity and reliability of the test are presented, in typically developing children (n = 324, 3-12 years) and children with PDD-NOS (n = 30). The ToM Storybooks have good psychometric qualities. A component analysis reveals five components corresponding with the underlying theoretical constructs. The internal consistency, test-retest reliability, inter-rater reliability, construct validity and convergent validity are good. The ToM Storybooks can be used in research as well as in clinical settings.
Blijd-Hoogewys
E M A
EM
Department of Clinical and Developmental Psychology, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands. els@px.nl
van Geert
P L C
PL
Serra
M
M
Minderaa
R B
RB
D001321:Autistic Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000523:psychology; D002648:Child; D002657:Child Development / Q000502:physiology*; D002675:Child, Preschool; D032882:Comprehension; D004644:Emotions; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D033182:Intention; D008297:Male; D011594:Psychometrics; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012938:Social Perception; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013647:Task Performance and Analysis