Separating component processes of theory of mind in schizophrenia.
OBJECTIVE
It has been argued that in order to take the perspective of another the 'default' self-perspective must first be inhibited. Thus, executive function failures (and specifically, reduced inhibitory control of the self-perspective) may contribute to the theory of mind (ToM) difficulties that have been observed in schizophrenia.


METHODS
Participants with schizophrenia (N=28) and demographically matched controls (N=30) were administered a behavioural measure of ToM that directly manipulates inhibitory demands by involving either high- or low-levels of self-perspective inhibition.


RESULTS
Relative to controls, participants with schizophrenia demonstrated impaired ToM, but did not have particular difficulty on the task that placed high demands on self-perspective inhibition.


CONCLUSIONS
Disruption of other-perspective taking, rather than self-perspective inhibition, appears to be the more important determinant of ToM impairment in schizophrenia. This finding is discussed in relation to competing perspectives of ToM.
Bailey
Phoebe E
PE
University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia. pbailey@psy.unsw.edu.au
Henry
Julie D
JD
D000328:Adult; D056344:Executive Function / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007266:Inhibition, Psychological; D008297:Male; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000503:physiopathology*; D012565:Schizophrenic Psychology; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012938:Social Perception; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D056345:Theory of Mind; D055815:Young Adult