Self-Referential Cognition and Empathy in Autism
Author Information
Author(s): Lombardo Michael V., Barnes Jennifer L., Wheelwright Sally J., Baron-Cohen Simon
Primary Institution: Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
Hypothesis
Are self-referential cognition and empathy impaired in individuals with autism spectrum conditions (ASC)?
Conclusion
Individuals with ASC have broad impairments in both self-referential cognition and empathy, which are intrinsically linked.
Supporting Evidence
- Individuals with ASC showed a significant self-reference effect in memory, but it was decreased compared to controls.
- ASC individuals had concurrent impairments on measures of alexithymia, self-focused attention, and empathy.
- More alexithymia and less self memory predicted larger mentalizing impairments and higher autistic trait scores.
Takeaway
People with autism have a harder time thinking about themselves and understanding how others feel.
Methodology
The study involved 30 adults with Asperger Syndrome or high-functioning autism and 30 matched controls, using a self-reference effect paradigm and various self-report measures.
Potential Biases
Potential biases in self-report measures and participant selection.
Limitations
The study's findings may not generalize to all individuals with autism, as it focused on high-functioning individuals.
Participant Demographics
30 adults with Asperger Syndrome or high-functioning autism, aged 19-45, and 30 matched controls.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website