Weak Central Coherence and Its Relations to Theory of Mind and Anxiety in Autism
Authors: Courtney Burnette1; Peter Mundy2; Jessica Meyer3; Steven Sutton2; Amy Vaughan2; David Charak2
Source: Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, Volume 35, Number 1, February 2005 , pp. 63-73(11)
Publisher: Springer
Abstract:
Recent theory and research suggests that weak central coherence, a specific perceptual-cognitive style, underlies the central disturbance in autism. This study sought to provide a test of the weak central coherence hypothesis. In addition, this study explored the relations between the weak central coherence hypothesis, theory of mind skills, and social-emotional functioning in a group of high functioning children with autism. Results revealed equivocal support for the weak central coherence hypothesis, but found moderate correlations between verbal weak central coherence and theory of mind measures. No significant findings were observed between weak central coherence measures and social-emotional functioning.Keywords: weak central coherence; anxiety; theory of mind; high functioning autism; comorbidity; social-emotional functioning
Document Type: Research article
DOI: 10.1007/s10803-004-1035-5
Affiliations: 1: Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, USA, Email: cburnette@umiami.ir.miami.edu 2: Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, USA, 3: Tavistock Clinic, University College of London, Gower street, London WCIE, 6BT, UK,

Click here for Page Help