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Cherewick M, Daniel C, Shrestha CC, Giri P, Dukpa C, Cruz CM, Rai RP, Matergia M. Psychosocial interventions for autistic children and adolescents delivered by non-specialists in low- and middle-income countries: a scoping review. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1181976. [PMID: 37609501 PMCID: PMC10440606 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1181976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Most autistic individuals reside in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) and have limited access to medical providers and specialists. Support for delivery of psychosocial interventions by non-specialists is growing to address this mental health care gap. This scoping review involved a systematic analysis of studies of non-specialist delivered psychosocial interventions for children and adolescents diagnosed with autism and living in low- and middle-income countries. Methods The primary objective of this review was to identify psychosocial interventions for autistic children and adolescents in LMIC delivered by non-specialists (parent, teacher, peer, community, multi-level) and to summarize resulting effects on targeted outcomes. The search strategy was completed in four databases with predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The systematic search generated 3,601 articles. A total of 18 studies met inclusion/exclusion criteria. Data extraction was completed, and results summarized by; (1) participant sample; (2) intervention procedures; (3) implementation by non-specialists; (4) effect on evaluated outcomes; and (5) assessment of risk of bias. Studies examined a range of child and adolescent outcomes including assessment of communication skills, social skills, motor skills, functional and adaptive behaviors, emotional regulation, attention and engagement, sensory challenges, depression, anxiety, and quality of life. Several studies also evaluated intervention effects on family relationships, parent/caregiver stress and parent/caregiver mental health. Results Collectively, the 18 studies included a total of 952 ASC participants ranging in age from 2 to 16 years. Of the included studies, 8 studies were parent/caregiver-mediated, 1 study was peer-mediated, 2 studies were teacher-mediated, and 7 studies included multi-level non-specialist mediated components. Effects on evaluated outcomes are reported. Conclusion Non-specialist delivered interventions for autistic children and adolescents are effective for an array of outcomes and are particularly well suited for low- and middle-income countries. Implications for future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Cherewick
- Department of Community & Behavioral Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Christina Daniel
- Department of Biostatistics & Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, CO, United States
| | | | - Priscilla Giri
- Darjeeling Ladenla Road Prerna, Darjeeling, West Bengal, India
| | - Choden Dukpa
- Darjeeling Ladenla Road Prerna, Darjeeling, West Bengal, India
| | - Christina M. Cruz
- Department of Psychiatry, School Psychology Program, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Roshan P. Rai
- Darjeeling Ladenla Road Prerna, Darjeeling, West Bengal, India
| | - Michael Matergia
- Broadleaf Health & Education Alliance, Stroudsburg, PA, United States
- Center for Global Health, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, CO, United States
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West MJ, Somer E, Eigsti IM. Immersive and maladaptive daydreaming and divergent thinking in autism spectrum disorders. IMAGINATION, COGNITION AND PERSONALITY 2023; 42:372-398. [PMID: 38031581 PMCID: PMC10686311 DOI: 10.1177/02762366221129819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Little is known about the internal mental experiences of individuals with ASD. While some research suggests a limited capacity for imagination, other studies show heightened interest in fantasy and unique forms of creative thinking in ASD. This study explored daydreaming experiences in adults with ASD, with a focus on immersive daydreaming and its relation to divergent thinking abilities. Individuals with and without a diagnosis of ASD were surveyed on their daydreaming habits and completed a divergent thinking task. Experiences of immersive daydreaming were identified in 42% of adults with ASD and were related to broad ASD traits in those without a diagnosis of ASD. However, ASD diagnosis was unrelated to originality of divergent thinking, which was negatively associated with immersive daydreaming. Moreover, daydreaming experiences in ASD were diverse. A more nuanced understanding of the mental experiences in ASD may assist in the development of interventions and support for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melina J West
- University of Connecticut Department of Psychological Sciences; 406 Babbidge Road, Storrs, CT, 06043
| | - Eli Somer
- School of Social Work, University of Haifa, Abba Khoushy Ave 199, Haifa, 3498838, Israel
| | - Inge-Marie Eigsti
- University of Connecticut Department of Psychological Sciences; 406 Babbidge Road, Storrs, CT, 06043
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Fahoum N, Pick H, Ivancovsky T, Shamay-Tsoory S. Free Your Mind: Creative Thinking Contributes to Overcoming Conflict-Related Biases. Brain Sci 2022; 12:1566. [PMID: 36421890 PMCID: PMC9688209 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12111566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Conflicts between groups are difficult to resolve, partly because humans tend to be biased in judging outgroup members. The aim of the current article is to review findings on the link between creativity and conflict-related biases and to offer a model that views creative cognition as an ability that may contribute to overcoming conflict-related biases. Our proposed model conforms to the twofold model of creativity. According to this model, creativity involves a generation phase and an evaluation phase, and these phases correspond to the neural mechanisms that underlie conflict-related biases. Specifically, we contend that the generation phase of creativity affects conflict-related biases by exerting an influence on stereotypes and prejudice, outgroup-targeted emotions, and ingroup empathy biases, all of which rely on the default mode network. Conversely, the evaluation phase of creativity, which is usually associated with activation in the executive control network and action-observation system, may be related to herding behaviors. Building on the shared mechanisms of creativity and conflicts, we propose that studies examining creativity-based interventions may be effective in promoting reconciliation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nardine Fahoum
- Department of Psychology, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel
| | - Hadas Pick
- Department of Psychology, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel
| | - Tal Ivancovsky
- The Gonda Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar Ilan University, Ramat-Gan 5290002, Israel
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Bertilsdotter Rosqvist H, Botha M, Hens K, O'Donoghue S, Pearson A, Stenning A. Cutting our own keys: New possibilities of neurodivergent storying in research. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2022:13623613221132107. [PMID: 36259512 DOI: 10.1177/13623613221132107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT A lot of people who do research are also neurodivergent (such as being autistic or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), but neurodivergent people do not always feel welcome in research spaces which are often shaped around neurotypical people. Some neurotypical researchers lack confidence in talking to neurodivergent people, and others feel like neurodivergent people might not be able to do good research about other people who are like them without being biased. We think it is important that all researchers are able to work well together, regardless of whether they are neurotypical, autistic, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (or any other neurotype) - in truly 'neurodiverse' teams. In this article we talk about how to create better spaces for all researchers, where we feel valued for who we are and take each others' needs into account. We do this using some approaches from other areas of research and talking about how they relate to our personal experiences of being neurodivergent researchers with our own personal stories. This article adds to a growing work on how we can work with people who are different from us, in more respectful and kind ways.
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Pellicano E, Fatima U, Hall G, Heyworth M, Lawson W, Lilley R, Mahony J, Stears M. A capabilities approach to understanding and supporting autistic adulthood. NATURE REVIEWS PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 1:624-639. [PMID: 36090460 PMCID: PMC9443657 DOI: 10.1038/s44159-022-00099-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
There is little comprehensive research into autistic adulthood, and even less into the services and supports that are most likely to foster flourishing adult autistic lives. This limited research is partly because autism is largely conceived as a condition of childhood, but this focus of research has also resulted from the orthodox scientific approach to autism, which conceptualizes autistic experience almost entirely as a series of biologically derived functional deficits. Approaching autism in this way severely limits what is known about this neurodevelopmental difference, how research is conducted and the services and supports available. In this Review, we adopt an alternative research strategy: we apply Martha Nussbaum’s capabilities approach, which focuses on ten core elements of a thriving human life, to research on autistic adulthood. In doing so, we identify areas where autistic adults thrive and where they often struggle, and highlight issues to which researchers, clinicians and policymakers should respond. The resulting picture is far more complex than conventional accounts of autism imply. It also reveals the importance of engaging autistic adults directly in the research process to make progress towards genuinely knowing autism and supporting flourishing autistic lives. The focus on functional deficits in conventional autism research constrains understanding of autistic lives. In this Review, Pellicano et al. appraise research on autistic adulthood through a capabilities lens to identify areas where autistic adults thrive, and where more research and services are needed to enhance their quality of life.
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Golan O, Terner M, Israel-Yaacov S, Allison C, Baron-Cohen S. The Autism-Spectrum Quotient-Hebrew version: Psychometric properties of a full and a short form, adapted for DSM-5. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2022; 27:796-807. [PMID: 36053012 PMCID: PMC10074759 DOI: 10.1177/13623613221117020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Despite the attempt to diagnose autism at an early age, there are still many individuals who would only get an autism diagnosis in adulthood. For these adults, a questionnaire that could assist in highlighting their need to seek diagnostic assessment is needed. The Autism-Spectrum Quotient is a self-report scale used to assess autistic traits. It was tested cross-culturally, and a short version was recommended to help identify adults who should be referred for an autism assessment. However, its relevance for the up-to-date diagnostic criteria, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.), has not been tested. This study aimed to examine the psychometric properties of the Hebrew version of the Autism-Spectrum Quotient and to create a short version of the Hebrew Autism-Spectrum Quotient, based on items which map on to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.) criteria. Ninety-three autistic adults (24 females), aged 18-51, clinically diagnosed according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.), and 147 comparable controls (34 females) filled out the Hebrew version of the Autism-Spectrum Quotient. Ten clinicians who specialize in diagnosing autism in adults classified the Autism-Spectrum Quotient's items according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.) criteria. The short version of the Hebrew Autism-Spectrum Quotient comprised items that best differentiated between adults with and without autism, five items representing each of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.) diagnostic domains. The overall probability for participants to be correctly classified as autistic or neurotypical was 86% for the Hebrew version of the Autism-Spectrum Quotient and 88% for the short version of the Hebrew Autism-Spectrum Quotient. We conclude that both versions are reliable and sensitive instruments that can help referring adults for autism assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ofer Golan
- Bar-Ilan University, Israel.,Association for Children at Risk, Israel.,University of Cambridge, UK
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Kontakou A, Dimitriou G, Panagouli E, Thomaidis L, Psaltopoulou T, Sergentanis TN, Tsitsika A. Giftedness and Neurodevelopmental Disorders in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review. J Dev Behav Pediatr 2022; 43:e483-e497. [PMID: 36040826 DOI: 10.1097/dbp.0000000000001103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Throughout the years, several myths have arisen suggesting that children diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disorders possess unusually high abilities in specific domains, depending on the disorder. On the other hand, special skills and talents in children with neurodevelopmental disorders are most commonly overshadowed by their difficulties and overlooked. The purpose of this systematic review is to examine the association between giftedness and neurodevelopmental disorders. METHODS The related articles published in PubMed, Google Scholar, PsycINFO, and Embase up to December 31, 2020, as well as their reference lists, were reviewed systematically. RESULTS A total of 6069 studies were scanned, and 32 of them (9904 subjects) were deemed eligible for this systematic review. Studies have supported associations between autism spectrum disorders and music ability. Contradictory results have been published regarding associations between giftedness, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and specific learning disorders. Diagnostic methods seemed to modify associations between giftedness and neurodevelopmental disorders. CONCLUSION The dearth of the available evidence is prominent. More research is needed to investigate the field of dual exceptionality. Longitudinal studies are needed, addressing methodological challenges pertaining to variability in the definition of giftedness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afroditi Kontakou
- 3rd Department of Pediatrics, "Attikon" University Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgia Dimitriou
- 2nd Department of Pediatrics, Athens General Children's Hospital "Pan. & Aglaia Kyriakou," Athens, Greece
| | - Eleni Panagouli
- MSc Program "Strategies of Developmental and Adolescent Health," Medical School of Athens, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Loretta Thomaidis
- MSc Program "Strategies of Developmental and Adolescent Health," Medical School of Athens, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Theodora Psaltopoulou
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, "Alexandra" Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Theodoros N Sergentanis
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, "Alexandra" Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Department of Public Health Policy, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece
| | - Artemis Tsitsika
- MSc Program "Strategies of Developmental and Adolescent Health," Medical School of Athens, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Andersen BP. Autistic-Like Traits and Positive Schizotypy as Diametric Specializations of the Predictive Mind. PERSPECTIVES ON PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE 2022; 17:1653-1672. [PMID: 35816687 DOI: 10.1177/17456916221075252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
According to the predictive-processing framework, only prediction errors (rather than all sensory inputs) are processed by an organism's perceptual system. Prediction errors can be weighted such that errors from more reliable sources will be more influential in updating prior beliefs. It has previously been argued that autism-spectrum conditions can be understood as resulting from a predictive-processing mechanism in which an inflexibly high weight is given to sensory-prediction errors that results in overfitting their predictive models to the world. Deficits in executive functioning, theory of mind, and central coherence are all argued to flow naturally from this core underlying mechanism. The diametric model of autism and psychosis suggests a simple extension of this hypothesis. If people on the autism spectrum give an inflexibly high weight to sensory input, could it be that people with a predisposition to psychosis (i.e., people high in positive schizotypy) give an inflexibly low weight to sensory input? In this article I argue that evidence strongly supports this hypothesis. An inflexibly low weight given to sensory input can explain such disparate features of positive schizotypy as increased exploratory behavior, apophenia, hyper theory of mind, hyperactive imagination, attentional differences, and having idiosyncratic worldviews.
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9
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Stolte M, Trindade-Pons V, Vlaming P, Jakobi B, Franke B, Kroesbergen EH, Baas M, Hoogman M. Characterizing Creative Thinking and Creative Achievements in Relation to Symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:909202. [PMID: 35845437 PMCID: PMC9283685 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.909202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous research on ADHD and ASD has mainly focused on the deficits associated with these conditions, but there is also evidence for strengths. Unfortunately, our understanding of potential strengths in neurodevelopmental conditions is limited. One particular strength, creativity, has been associated with both ADHD and ASD. However, the distinct presentations of both conditions beg the question whether ADHD and ASD associate with the same or different aspects of creativity. Therefore, the current study investigated the links between ADHD and ASD symptoms, creative thinking abilities, and creative achievements. To investigate the spectrum of ADHD and ASD symptoms, self-reported ADHD and ASD symptoms, convergent (Remote Associations Test) and divergent thinking (Alternative Uses Task) and creative achievements (Creative Achievement Questionnaire) were assessed in a self-reportedly healthy sample of adults (n = 470). We performed correlation analysis to investigate the relation between ADHD/ASD symptoms and creativity measures. In a second phase of analysis, data from an adult ADHD case-control study (n = 151) were added to investigate the association between ADHD symptoms and divergent thinking in individuals with and without a diagnosis of ADHD. Our analysis revealed that having more ADHD symptoms in the general population was associated with higher scores on all the outcome measures for divergent thinking (fluency, flexibility, and originality), but not for convergent thinking. Individuals with an ADHD diagnosis in the case-control sample also scored higher on measures of divergent thinking. Combining data of the population based and case-control studies showed that ADHD symptoms predict divergent thinking up to a certain level of symptoms. No significant associations were found between the total number of ASD symptoms and any of the creativity measures. However, explorative analyses showed interesting links between the ASD subdomains of problems with imagination and symptoms that relate to social difficulties. Our findings showed a link between ADHD symptoms and divergent thinking abilities that plateaus in the clinical spectrum of symptoms. For ASD symptoms, no relation was found with creativity measures. Increasing the knowledge about positive phenotypes associated with neurodevelopmental conditions and their symptom dimensions might aid psychoeducation, decrease stigmatization and improve quality of life of individuals living with such conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marije Stolte
- Educational Consultancy and Professional Development, Faculty of Social Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Victoria Trindade-Pons
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Priscilla Vlaming
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Babette Jakobi
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Barbara Franke
- Department of Psychiatry and Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | | | - Matthijs Baas
- Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Martine Hoogman
- Department of Psychiatry and Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, Netherlands
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Bemmouna D, Weibel S, Kosel M, Hasler R, Weiner L, Perroud N. The utility of the autism-spectrum quotient to screen for autism spectrum disorder in adults with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Psychiatry Res 2022; 312:114580. [PMID: 35523029 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2022.114580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The co-occurrence of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been reported to be highly prevalent in adults. However, very few studies have assessed the usefulness of screening instruments to detect this co-occurrence, particularly when screening for ASD in the context of ADHD. Our study aimed at assessing the utility of the autism-spectrum quotient (AQ) as a screening tool of ASD in a sample of 153 adults referred for ADHD assessment. Our results showed that the AQ is of limited use in this context as its positive predictive value was low (47%). Particularly, the more severe the attentional deficits the more likely individuals with ADHD were to be misclassified as having a co-occurring ASD based on the AQ. However, the "imagination" subscale of the AQ was able to discriminate those who met ASD criteria from those who did not, suggesting that targeting imagination impairments might be useful when assessing for the ADHD+ASD co-occurrence in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doha Bemmouna
- Department of Psychology, University of Strasbourg, 12 Rue Goethe, Strasbourg 67000, France.
| | - Sébastien Weibel
- Inserm U1114, 1 Place de l'Hôpital, Strasbourg 67000, France; Psychiatry Department, University Hospitals of Strasbourg, 1 Place de l'Hôpital, Strasbourg 67000, France
| | - Markus Kosel
- Department of Mental Health and Psychiatry, Service of Psychiatric Specialties, University Hospital of Geneva, 20 rue de Lausanne, Geneva 1201, Switzerland
| | - Roland Hasler
- Department of Mental Health and Psychiatry, Service of Psychiatric Specialties, University Hospital of Geneva, 20 rue de Lausanne, Geneva 1201, Switzerland
| | - Luisa Weiner
- Department of Psychology, University of Strasbourg, 12 Rue Goethe, Strasbourg 67000, France; Psychiatry Department, University Hospitals of Strasbourg, 1 Place de l'Hôpital, Strasbourg 67000, France
| | - Nader Perroud
- Department of Mental Health and Psychiatry, Service of Psychiatric Specialties, University Hospital of Geneva, 20 rue de Lausanne, Geneva 1201, Switzerland
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Maykel C, Kaufman JC. The assessment of creativity for people with autism spectrum disorder. PSYCHOLOGY IN THE SCHOOLS 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/pits.22729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl Maykel
- Division of Education and Counseling Rivier University Nashua New Hampshire USA
| | - James C. Kaufman
- Neag School of Education University of Connecticut Mansfield Connecticut USA
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12
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Gopan K G, Reddy SA, Rao M, Sinha N. Analysis of single channel electroencephalographic signals for visual creativity: A pilot study. Biomed Signal Process Control 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bspc.2022.103542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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13
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Buckley E, Pellicano E, Remington A. "Knowing That I'm Not Necessarily Alone in My Struggles": UK Autistic Performing Arts Professionals' Experiences of a Mentoring Programme. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 52:5451-5470. [PMID: 34966983 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05394-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This research examined whether professional mentoring could have a positive effect on the occupational self-efficacy of autistic performing arts professionals. We compared the outcomes of one group who received mentoring to a waitlist control group. 26 participants took part in this study: 15 autistic mentees and 11 mentors, three of whom were also autistic. The mentoring programme was well received and felt to be beneficial by the participating mentees and mentors, particularly regarding gains in mentees' occupational self-efficacy. Professional mentoring also addressed several work-oriented challenges identified by autistic performing arts professionals such as feelings of isolation in the industry and need for consultation and advice on both a professional level, and for mentees with autistic mentors, also a neurodivergent one.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor Buckley
- UCL Centre for Research in Autism and Education (CRAE), University College London, London, UK.
| | | | - Anna Remington
- UCL Centre for Research in Autism and Education (CRAE), University College London, London, UK
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Hu J, Zhang J, Hu L, Yu H, Xu J. Art Therapy: A Complementary Treatment for Mental Disorders. Front Psychol 2021; 12:686005. [PMID: 34456801 PMCID: PMC8397377 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.686005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Art therapy, as a non-pharmacological medical complementary and alternative therapy, has been used as one of medical interventions with good clinical effects on mental disorders. However, systematically reviewed in detail in clinical situations is lacking. Here, we searched on PubMed for art therapy in an attempt to explore its theoretical basis, clinical applications, and future perspectives to summary its global pictures. Since drawings and paintings have been historically recognized as a useful part of therapeutic processes in art therapy, we focused on studies of art therapy which mainly includes painting and drawing as media. As a result, a total of 413 literature were identified. After carefully reading full articles, we found that art therapy has been gradually and successfully used for patients with mental disorders with positive outcomes, mainly reducing suffering from mental symptoms. These disorders mainly include depression disorders and anxiety, cognitive impairment and dementias, Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, and autism. These findings suggest that art therapy can not only be served as an useful therapeutic method to assist patients to open up and share their feelings, views, and experiences, but also as an auxiliary treatment for diagnosing diseases to help medical specialists obtain complementary information different from conventional tests. We humbly believe that art therapy has great potential in clinical applications on mental disorders to be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingxuan Hu
- College of Creative Design, Shenzhen Technology University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jinhuan Zhang
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China.,Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Liyu Hu
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Haibo Yu
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jinping Xu
- Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
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Doehring P. Does the Arc of Science Bend Towards Impact? Four Decades of Empirical Research Published in JADD Since the DSM-III. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 51:4411-4421. [PMID: 33974159 PMCID: PMC8531089 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05052-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The present study explored the shift from understanding to intervention to population impact in the empirical research published in this journal at five points of time over 40 years since the release of DSM-III. Two-thirds of the more than 600 original studies identified involved basic research, a pattern that is consistent with previous analyses of research funding allocations and that did not change over time. One of every eight studies involved intervention research, which occurred in community-based programs only about one-quarter of the time. These gaps in intervention research and community impact did not improve over time. The findings underscore the need to broaden the training and experience of researchers, and to re-consider priorities for research funding and publication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Doehring
- ASD Roadmap, 5 Nine Gates Road, Chadds Ford, PA, 19317, USA.
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Abstract
An essential aim in the research on semantic cognition is to understand the interplay between the structure of semantic representation and controlled processes that operate on it to generate flexible behaviours. To evaluate the link between semantic network connectivity and semantic control functions (semantic inhibition and switching), we employed a network theory approach and revealed that controlled semantic processing was reliably associated with connectivity of conceptual representation. In particular, our results show that efficient information flow afforded by high connectivity of semantic network is coupled with superior switching but poor inhibition ability. These findings suggest that the network architectures that facilitate efficient semantic activation spreading aid flexible transitions between semantic clusters but impede inhibition employed to suppress inappropriate or interfering semantic representations. Overall, our study provides a novel insight into the mechanisms underlying controlled semantic processing that is recruited to disentangle from habitual structure of semantic representation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Marko
- Department of Behavioural Neuroscience, Institute of Normal and Pathological Physiology, Centre of Experimental Medicine, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia.,Department of Applied Informatics, Faculty of Mathematics, Physics and Informatics, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Igor Riečanský
- Department of Behavioural Neuroscience, Institute of Normal and Pathological Physiology, Centre of Experimental Medicine, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia.,Social, Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience Unit, Department of Cognition, Emotion, and Methods in Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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17
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Simpraga S, Weiland RF, Mansvelder HD, Polderman TJ, Begeer S, Smit DJ, Linkenkaer-Hansen K. Adults with autism spectrum disorder show atypical patterns of thoughts and feelings during rest. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2021; 25:1433-1443. [PMID: 33607920 PMCID: PMC8264629 DOI: 10.1177/1362361321990928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Everyone knows the feeling of letting one's mind wander freely in a quiet moment. The thoughts and feelings experienced in those moments have been shown to influence our well-being-and vice versa. In this study, we looked at which thoughts and feelings are being experienced by adults with autism spectrum disorder and compared them to adults without autism spectrum disorder. In total, 88 adults with autism spectrum disorder and 90 adults without autism spectrum disorder were asked to rest for 5 min with their eyes closed and let their mind wander. Directly after, they filled in the Amsterdam Resting-State Questionnaire, which probes what participants were feeling and thinking during the period of rest. We found that adults with autism spectrum disorder tend to think less about others, felt less comfortable, and had more disrupted thoughts during the rest compared to adults without autism spectrum disorder. Interestingly, autism spectrum disorder participants reporting lower levels of comfort during the rest also reported more autism spectrum disorder symptoms, specifically in social behaviors and skills, attention switching, and imagination. We propose to use the eyes-closed rest condition in combination with the Amsterdam Resting-State Questionnaire more widely to shed light on aberrant thoughts and feelings in brain disorders and to study the effect of therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Simpraga
- VU Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,NBT Analytics B.V., The Netherlands
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18
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Higher levels of autistic traits associated with lower levels of self-efficacy and wellbeing for performing arts professionals. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0246423. [PMID: 33596243 PMCID: PMC7888677 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0246423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
This study sought for the first time to identify the extent to which autistic people are pursuing careers in the performing arts, and to determine the nature of the relationship between individuals' autistic traits and their reported wellbeing. To address these aims, we recruited a self-selecting, community-based sample of individuals working in the performing arts and invited them to complete an online survey. A total of 1,427 respondents took part. We collected responses on participants' backgrounds, including diagnostic history as well as measures assessing their level of autistic traits, perceived occupational self-efficacy, quality of life, and mental health. They were also asked open-ended questions about support needed, received, or desired in their workplace. Eleven of the 1,427 professionals (1%) reported a clinical diagnosis of autism. Correlational analyses demonstrated that higher levels of autistic traits were significantly associated with lower levels of quality of life, lower levels of occupational self-efficacy and greater severity of mental health conditions. Almost half the sample of professionals (N = 621; 44%) reported a desire for more employment-based support, and autistic traits were significantly higher in those participants who wanted greater support. Within the community of those working in the performing arts, there are a minority of individuals who are autistic or who have high levels of autistic traits. We have demonstrated for the first time that these individuals may be especially vulnerable to lower wellbeing.
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19
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CERRAH ÖZSEVGEÇ L, KONTAŞ AZAKLI T. Investigation of the relationship between the theory of mind and creative thinking skills of children in rural area. ESTUDOS DE PSICOLOGIA (CAMPINAS) 2021. [DOI: 10.1590/1982-0275202138e190155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract The aim of this study, accordingly, is to determine the relation between creativity and theory of mind skills of children aged 5-11 (Ns:117) who continue Primary Education in rural areas and to reveal the relation between the sub-dimensions of these abilities. At the end of the study, it was found that there was a significant and positive relation between the total creativity score and the sub-dimensions of theory of mind. It was found that there was a significant and positive relation between all sub-dimensions of creativity and theory of mind. The total creativity score and the scores of the sub-dimensions of creativity (fluency, originality, and elaboration) were significant but weak predictors of theory of mind tasks.
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20
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Kasirer A, Adi-Japha E, Mashal N. Verbal and Figural Creativity in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder and Typical Development. Front Psychol 2020; 11:559238. [PMID: 33192819 PMCID: PMC7652732 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.559238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) demonstrate lower performance on creativity tasks. Yet, recent findings suggest that individuals with ASD are not necessarily impaired in verbal creativity, as measured by the novel metaphor generation task. The current study investigates verbal and figural creativity in 40 children with ASD (aged 11–14 years) and 39 peers with typical development (TD) (aged 11–15 years). We also tested the contribution of executive functions to the creative performance. A sentence completion questionnaire was used to test creative verbal generation, while a task of drawing non-existent objects was used to assess figural abilities. The results indicate that children with ASD generated a greater quantity of creative metaphors and showed greater use of a specific kind of representational change on the figural creativity task: cross-category insertions (e.g., a house with a tail). However, no correlation was found between the metaphor generation task and the use of cross-category insertions for either group. Results also showed that, whereas phonemic fluency contributed to the explained variance in novel metaphor generation in the ASD group, fluid intelligence, although only marginally, contributed to variance in novel metaphor generation in the TD group. These findings suggest that verbal creativity and figural creativity are two separate abilities relying on different cognitive resources. Our results show that those with ASD and TD differ in the cognitive abilities they use to perform the metaphor generation task. The research points to a unique creative cognition profile among children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anat Kasirer
- School of Education, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Esther Adi-Japha
- School of Education, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel.,Gonda Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Nira Mashal
- School of Education, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel.,Gonda Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
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21
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Marton-Alper IZ, Gvirts-Provolovski HZ, Nevat M, Karklinsky M, Shamay-Tsoory SG. Herding in human groups is related to high autistic traits. Sci Rep 2020; 10:17957. [PMID: 33087785 PMCID: PMC7578000 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-74951-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Herding is ubiquitous throughout all social life forms, providing beneficial outcomes. Here, we examine whether herding emerges spontaneously in human groups and whether it adheres to the core principles of herding observed in the animal kingdom. Using a computerized paradigm involving the movements of circles, we tested the emergence of spontaneous and intentional herding of 136 participants assigned into groups of four participants. Herding was assessed by measuring directional synchrony in the movements of the circles, level of cohesion, and separation between circles. We found that human groups tend to spontaneously herd, particularly in terms of directional synchrony, supporting the notion of a human herding instinct. We further asked whether individuals with high traits of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) exhibit differences in their herding tendencies. Results indicated that individuals with high ASD traits showed greater social separation from the group, compared to individuals with low ASD traits. Moreover, we found diminished spontaneous synchrony, but intact instructed synchrony in the high vs. the low ASD traits group. We contend that humans spontaneously herd with their group and suggest that the spontaneous tendency to synchronize with others is diminished in individuals with high ASD traits, though it is recovered when synchronization is intentional.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - M Nevat
- Department of Psychology, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - M Karklinsky
- Department of Computer Science and Applied Mathematics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - S G Shamay-Tsoory
- Department of Psychology, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center (IBBRC), Haifa, Israel
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22
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Ioannou S, Key AP, Muscatello RA, Klemencic M, Corbett BA. Peer Actors and Theater Techniques Play Pivotal Roles in Improving Social Play and Anxiety for Children With Autism. Front Psychol 2020; 11:908. [PMID: 32536887 PMCID: PMC7269006 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have significant difficulty in social functioning to include engaging in natural play with peers. Many children with ASD exhibit significantly less interactive play and more physiological stress during benign social encounters with same-age peers on a playground. Theatrical role-playing and performance with expert role models may provide a unique opportunity for children with ASD to learn to engage with other children in a safe, supportive environment. SENSE Theatre® is a peer-mediated, theater-based program aimed at improving social competence in youth with ASD. Previous studies have shown significant improvements in social and communication skills following SENSE Theatre® intervention. The current project examined play with novel peers and self-reported anxiety before and after participation in SENSE Theatre®. Participants included 77 children between 8 and 16 years with high-functioning (IQ ≥ 70) ASD. The combined sample of three cohorts was randomized to the experimental (EXP, N = 44) or waitlist control (WLC, N = 33) group. Participants in the EXP group received 40 h (10, 4-h sessions) of SENSE Theatre®. The Peer Interaction Paradigm (PIP), an ecologically valid measure of natural play, was administered before and after the intervention. Group Play and Self Play on the playground equipment during solicited (T4) and unsolicited (T1) play were used in the current study. The State Trait Anxiety Scale for Children (STAIC; Spielberger et al., 1983) was used to measure self-reported current and persistent anxiety, respectively. Following treatment, children in the EXP group engaged in significantly more Group Play with novel peers [F(2,73) = 7.78, p = 0.007] and much less Self Play [F(2,73) = 6.70, p = 0.01] during solicited play compared to the WLC group. Regression analysis revealed that pretreatment play and group status were significant predictors of solicited Group Play. Children in the EXP group reported significantly less Trait anxiety following intervention [F(2,71) = 6.87, p = 0.01]; however, State anxiety was comparable. Results corroborate previous findings of significant changes in social and play behavior in children with ASD following the peer-mediated, theater-based intervention. Acting and theatrical performance with supportive role models facilitates social engagement in everyday settings with novel peers and reductions in self-reported anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Ioannou
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Alexandra P. Key
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | | | - Mark Klemencic
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Blythe A. Corbett
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Department of Psychology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
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23
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Lee GT, Hu X, Liu Y, Zou C, Cheng X, Zhao Q, Huang J. Increasing Response Diversity to Intraverbals in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 50:292-307. [PMID: 31621019 PMCID: PMC6946731 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-019-04250-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of intraverbal prompts on response diversity and novelty in intraverbals posed to children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The intraverbal prompts involving function, feature, and class (FFC) of an item were used in the training of three questions requiring multiple responses. Two Chinese boys with ASD (aged 5-6 years) served as participants. A multiple-probe across three behaviors design was employed. The results indicated that the intraverbal prompts effectively increased the number of divergent responses to all three questions. Novel responses emerged at a low level while generalization to similar questions was not observed following the training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle T. Lee
- Faculty of Education, Western University, 1137 Western Road, Room 1105, London, ON Canada
| | - Xiaoyi Hu
- Department of Special Education, Beijing Normal University, Rm 408, YingDong Building, Xin Jie Kou Wai Da Jie #19, Beijing, China
| | - Yanhong Liu
- Department of Special Education, Beijing Normal University, Rm 419, YingDong Building, Xin Jie Kou Wai Da Jie #19, Beijing, China
| | - Chouyun Zou
- Zhuxiang School, Nong Lin Road #61, FuTian District, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xia Cheng
- Faculty of Education, Education Research Center for Children with Autism, Beijing Normal University, Rm 406, YingDong Building, Xin Jie Kou Wai Da Jie #19, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Zhao
- Hai Dian Modern Art Preschool, 7th Building, Luo Zhuang Xi Li, Zhi Chun Lu, HaiDian, Beijing, China
| | - Jingjing Huang
- Hai Dian Modern Art Preschool, 7th Building, Luo Zhuang Xi Li, Zhi Chun Lu, HaiDian, Beijing, China
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24
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Creativity in Autism: An Examination of General and Mathematical Creative Thinking Among Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Children with Typical Development. J Autism Dev Disord 2019; 49:3833-3844. [PMID: 31183666 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-019-04094-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated creative thinking abilities among two groups of 20 children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) compared to 20 children with typical development ages 9-11. The study compared performance on two different creativity tests: general creativity (Pictorial Multiple Solutions-PMS) test versus mathematical creativity (Creating Equal Number-CEN) test, and investigated relationships between general and mathematical creative thinking across various cognitive measures including non-verbal IQ, verbal and non-verbal working memory and Attention. Results of the study demonstrate significant correlations among the measures of creativity indicating that the PMS and the CEN tasks represent different skills, or perhaps, different domains of creativity. Findings suggest that creativity can be found among individuals with ASD.
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25
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26
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Adornetti I, Ferretti F, Chiera A, Wacewicz S, Żywiczyński P, Deriu V, Marini A, Magni R, Casula L, Vicari S, Valeri G. Do Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders Understand Pantomimic Events? Front Psychol 2019; 10:1382. [PMID: 31316416 PMCID: PMC6611388 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Impairments of motor representation of actions have been reported as a core component of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Individuals with ASD have difficulties in a number of functions such as assuming anticipatory postures, imitating body movements, producing and understanding gestures, and recognizing motor intentions. Such cognitive-motor abilities are all involved in pantomime. However, the available evidence on the production and comprehension of pantomime in individuals with ASD is still inconclusive. The current investigation assessed pantomime comprehension in 40 children with high-functioning ASD and 40 children with typical development balanced for age, IQ, level of formal education, and cognitive profile. The participants were asked to watch video recordings of pantomimes representing simple transitive events enacted by actors and match them to the corresponding pictorial representations. Such pantomimes were delivered in two conditions with different levels of information content (i.e., lean or rich). The two groups of children performed similarly on these tasks. Nonetheless, children with ASD who were administered the pantomimes in the lean condition performed worse than participants who were administered the informatively richer pantomimes. The methodological implications for interpretation of previous findings and future studies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Adornetti
- Cosmic Laboratory, Department of Philosophy, Communication and Performing Arts, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Ferretti
- Cosmic Laboratory, Department of Philosophy, Communication and Performing Arts, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Chiera
- Cosmic Laboratory, Department of Philosophy, Communication and Performing Arts, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
| | - Slawomir Wacewicz
- Department of English, Center for Language Evolution Studies CLES, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Torun, Poland
| | - Przemysław Żywiczyński
- Department of English, Center for Language Evolution Studies CLES, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Torun, Poland
| | - Valentina Deriu
- Cosmic Laboratory, Department of Philosophy, Communication and Performing Arts, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Marini
- Department of Languages and Literatures, Communication, Education and Society, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
- Scientific Institute, IRCCS E. Medea, San Vito al Tagliamento, Pordenone, Italy
| | - Rita Magni
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Casula
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Vicari
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Valeri
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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27
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28
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Exploring links between creative abilities, creative personality and subclinical autistic traits. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2018.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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29
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Russell G, Kapp SK, Elliott D, Elphick C, Gwernan-Jones R, Owens C. Mapping the Autistic Advantage from the Accounts of Adults Diagnosed with Autism: A Qualitative Study. AUTISM IN ADULTHOOD 2019; 1:124-133. [PMID: 31058260 PMCID: PMC6493410 DOI: 10.1089/aut.2018.0035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Background: Autism has been associated with specific cognitive strengths. Strengths and weaknesses have traditionally been conceptualized as dichotomous. Methods: We conducted 28 semi-structured interviews with autistic adults. Maximum variation sampling was used to ensure diversity in relation to support needs. We asked which personal traits adults attributed to their autism, and how these have helped in the workplace, in relationships, and beyond. Data were collected in two stages. Responses were analyzed using content and thematic techniques. Results: The ability to hyperfocus, attention to detail, good memory, and creativity were the most frequently described traits. Participants also described specific qualities relating to social interaction, such as honesty, loyalty, and empathy for animals or for other autistic people. In thematic analysis we found that traits associated with autism could be experienced either as advantageous or disadvantageous dependent on moderating influences. Moderating influences included the social context in which behaviors occurred, the ability to control behaviors, and the extent to which traits were expressed. Conclusions: Separating autistic strengths from weaknesses may be a false dichotomy if traits cannot be isolated as separate constructs of strengths or deficits. If attempts to isolate problematic traits from advantageous traits are ill conceived, there may be implications for interventions that have reduction in autistic traits as a primary outcome measure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ginny Russell
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Steven K Kapp
- College of Sociology, Philosophy and Anthropology, Social Science and International Studies, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Daisy Elliott
- College of Sociology, Philosophy and Anthropology, Social Science and International Studies, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Chris Elphick
- College of Sociology, Philosophy and Anthropology, Social Science and International Studies, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth Gwernan-Jones
- College of Sociology, Philosophy and Anthropology, Social Science and International Studies, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Christabel Owens
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
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30
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Frauenberger C, Spiel K, Makhaeva J. Thinking OutsideTheBox - Designing Smart Things with Autistic Children. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HUMAN-COMPUTER INTERACTION 2018; 35:666-678. [PMID: 31057337 PMCID: PMC6474726 DOI: 10.1080/10447318.2018.1550177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
This article offers a synopsis of and a critical reflection on the research project OutsideTheBox Rethinking Assistive Technology with Autistic Children. The aim of the 3-year project was to develop digital technology that would holistically respond to the complex life-worlds of autistic children, affording positive experiences that they could share with others. Through a series of long-term participatory design processes, smart objects were developed individually with nine children employing a wide range of different methods (e.g., Co-operative Inquiry, Future Workshops, Fictional Inquiry, Magic Workshops, Drama and Making & Digital Fabrication). In this article are presented the cases of all children worked with and tie them together by a critical reflection across them. The discussion offers insights along three main themes: we a) substantiate the argument for a theoretical shift in conceptualizing roles for technology in the lives of disabled people, b) discuss our methodological contributions in participatory design processes and c) propose alternative, participatory approaches to evaluate outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Katta Spiel
- HCI Group, Institute for Visual Computing & Human-Centered Technology, TU Wien, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julia Makhaeva
- HCI Group, Institute for Visual Computing & Human-Centered Technology, TU Wien, Vienna, Austria
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31
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Ferretti F, Adornetti I, Chiera A, Nicchiarelli S, Valeri G, Magni R, Vicari S, Marini A. Time and Narrative: An Investigation of Storytelling Abilities in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Psychol 2018; 9:944. [PMID: 29971024 PMCID: PMC6018079 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.00944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
This study analyzed the relation between mental time travel (MTT) and the ability to produce a storytelling focusing on global coherence, which is one of the most notable characteristics of narrative discourse. As global coherence is strictly tied to the temporal sequence of the events narrated in a story, we hypothesized that the construction of coherent narratives would rely on the ability to mentally navigate in time. To test such a hypothesis, we investigated the relation between one component of MTT—namely, episodic future thinking (EFT)—and narrative production skills by comparing the narratives uttered by 66 children with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with those produced by 66 children with typical development. EFT was assessed by administering a task with minimal narrative demands, whereas storytelling production skills were assessed by administering two narrative production tasks that required children to generate future or past episodes with respect to the target stimuli. The results showed that EFT skills were impaired only in a subgroup of children with ASD and that such subgroup performed significantly worse on the narrative production task than ASD participants with high EFT skills and participants with typical development. The practical and theoretical implications of these findings are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Ferretti
- Cosmic Lab, Department of Philosophy, Communication and Performing Arts, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
| | - Ines Adornetti
- Cosmic Lab, Department of Philosophy, Communication and Performing Arts, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Chiera
- Cosmic Lab, Department of Philosophy, Communication and Performing Arts, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
| | - Serena Nicchiarelli
- Cosmic Lab, Department of Philosophy, Communication and Performing Arts, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Valeri
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, The Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Rita Magni
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, The Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Vicari
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, The Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Marini
- Department of Languages and Literatures, Communication, Education and Society, University of Udine, Udine, Italy.,Claudiana - Landesfachhochschule für Gesundheitsberufe, Bozen, Italy
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32
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Colzato LS, Ritter SM, Steenbergen L. Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) enhances divergent thinking. Neuropsychologia 2018; 111:72-76. [PMID: 29326067 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2018.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Revised: 01/03/2018] [Accepted: 01/04/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Creativity is one of the most important cognitive skills in our complex and fast-changing world. Previous correlative evidence showed that gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is involved in divergent but not convergent thinking. In the current study, a placebo/sham-controlled, randomized between-group design was used to test a causal relation between vagus nerve and creativity. We employed transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS), a novel non-invasive brain stimulation technique to stimulate afferent fibers of the vagus nerve and speculated to increase GABA levels, in 80 healthy young volunteers. Creative performance was assessed in terms of divergent thinking (Alternate Uses Task) and convergent thinking tasks (Remote Associates Test, Creative Problem Solving Task, Idea Selection Task). Results demonstrate active tVNS, compared to sham stimulation, enhanced divergent thinking. Bayesian analysis reported the data to be inconclusive regarding a possible effect of tVNS on convergent thinking. Therefore, our findings corroborate the idea that the vagus nerve is causally involved in creative performance. Even thought we did not directly measure GABA levels, our results suggest that GABA (likely to be increased in active tVNS condition) supports the ability to select among competing options in high selection demand (divergent thinking) but not in low selection demand (convergent thinking).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenza S Colzato
- Leiden University, Cognitive Psychology Unit & Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden, The Netherlands; Department of Cognitive Psychology, Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany; Institute for Sports and Sport Science, University of Kassel, Kassel, Germany.
| | - Simone M Ritter
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Laura Steenbergen
- Leiden University, Cognitive Psychology Unit & Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden, The Netherlands
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33
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Huang AX, Hughes TL, Sutton LR, Lawrence M, Chen X, Ji Z, Zeleke W. Understanding the Self in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD): A Review of Literature. Front Psychol 2017; 8:1422. [PMID: 28878717 PMCID: PMC5572253 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2017.01422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
When the system of self is explored in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs), it is important to measure it via both their own perceptions of the self and their understanding of others' perceptions on themselves at a multidimensional level. This paper reviews existing research in this area using a three-dimension approach. Researchers have found that impairments in the self-system are usually correlated with these individuals' social and cognitive functioning levels: high functioning individuals with ASD who have higher IQ are found to have better awareness of their limitations in social and communication domains than those with lower IQ. Many researchers believe that there are impairments in the psychological (but not physical) self in individuals with ASD, such as theory of mind deficits due to social and communicative impairments. On the other hand, some researchers argue that individuals with ASD have selective rather than global impairments in the self. In other words, the impairment usually lies in a specific aspect of functioning in individuals with ASD. Insights from the review of existing literature on this topic may be able to shed some lights on the development of effective intervention programs to improve social communication deficits in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann X. Huang
- Department of Counseling, Psychology and Special Education, School of Education, Duquesne University, PittsburghPA, United States
| | - Tammy L. Hughes
- Department of Counseling, Psychology and Special Education, School of Education, Duquesne University, PittsburghPA, United States
| | - Lawrence R. Sutton
- Department of Counseling, Psychology and Special Education, School of Education, Duquesne University, PittsburghPA, United States
| | - Marissa Lawrence
- Department of Counseling, Psychology and Special Education, School of Education, Duquesne University, PittsburghPA, United States
| | - Xiaohan Chen
- Department of Counseling, Psychology and Special Education, School of Education, Duquesne University, PittsburghPA, United States
| | - Zhe Ji
- Director of International Students Affairs, Vincennes University, VincennesIN, United States
| | - Waganesh Zeleke
- Department of Counseling, Psychology and Special Education, School of Education, Duquesne University, PittsburghPA, United States
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Constable PA, Ring M, Gaigg SB, Bowler DM. Problem-solving styles in autism spectrum disorder and the development of higher cognitive functions. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2017; 22:597-608. [PMID: 28482683 DOI: 10.1177/1362361317691044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The Vygotsky Blocks Test assesses problem-solving styles within a theoretical framework for the development of higher mental processes devised by Vygotsky. Because both the theory and the associated test situate cognitive development within the child's social and linguistic context, they address conceptual issues around the developmental relation between language and thought that are pertinent to development in autism. Our aim was to document the performance of adults with autism spectrum disorder on the Vygotsky Blocks Test, and our results showed that they made more errors than the typically developing participants and that these errors correlated with performance IQ. The autism spectrum disorder group also required more cues than the typically developing group to discern the conceptual structure of the blocks, a pattern that correlated with Autism Diagnostic Observational Schedule-Communication and Imagination/Creativity sub-scales. When asked to categorize the blocks in new ways, the autism spectrum disorder participants developed fewer principles on which to base new categorizations, which in contrast to the typically developing group correlated with verbal IQ and with the Imagination/Creativity sub-scale of the ADOS. These results are in line with a number of existing findings in the autism spectrum disorder literature and confirm that conceptualization in autism spectrum disorder seems to rely more on non-verbal and less on imaginative processes than in typically developing individuals. The findings represent first steps to the possibility of outlining a testable account of psychological development in autism spectrum disorder that integrates verbal, non-verbal and social factors into the transition from elementary to higher level processes.
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35
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Vella L, Ring HA, Aitken MR, Watson PC, Presland A, Clare IC. Understanding self-reported difficulties in decision-making by people with autism spectrum disorders. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2017; 22:549-559. [PMID: 28425298 DOI: 10.1177/1362361316687988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Autobiographical accounts and a limited research literature suggest that adults with autism spectrum disorders can experience difficulties with decision-making. We examined whether some of the difficulties they describe correspond to quantifiable differences in decision-making when compared to adults in the general population. The participants (38 intellectually able adults with autism spectrum disorders and 40 neurotypical adults) were assessed on three tasks of decision-making (Iowa Gambling Task, Cambridge Gamble Task and Information Sampling Task), which quantified, respectively, decision-making performance and relative attention to negative and positive outcomes, speed and flexibility, and information sampling. As a caution, all analyses were repeated with a subset of participants ( nASD = 29 and nneurotypical = 39) who were not taking antidepressant or anxiolytic medication. Compared to the neurotypical participants, participants with autism spectrum disorders demonstrated slower decision-making on the Cambridge Gamble Task, and superior performance on the Iowa Gambling Task. When those taking the medications were excluded, participants with autism spectrum disorders also sampled more information. There were no other differences between the groups. These processing tendencies may contribute to the difficulties self-reported in some contexts; however, the results also highlight strengths in autism spectrum disorders, such as a more logical approach to, and care in, decision-making. The findings lead to recommendations for how adults with autism spectrum disorders may be better supported with decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Vella
- 1 Oxfordshire County Council, UK.,2 University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Howard A Ring
- 2 University of Cambridge, UK.,3 Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | | | | | | | - Isabel Ch Clare
- 2 University of Cambridge, UK.,3 Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, UK.,7 NIHR CLAHRC East of England, UK
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36
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Poljac E, Hoofs V, Princen MM, Poljac E. Understanding Behavioural Rigidity in Autism Spectrum Conditions: The Role of Intentional Control. J Autism Dev Disord 2017; 47:714-727. [PMID: 28070785 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-016-3010-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Although behavioural rigidity belongs to the core symptoms of autism spectrum conditions, little is known about its underlying cognitive mechanisms. The current study investigated the role of intentional control mechanisms in behavioural rigidity in autism. Autistic individuals and their matched controls were instructed to repeatedly choose between two simple cognitive tasks and to respond accordingly to the subsequently presented stimulus. Results showed that autistic participants chose to repeat tasks more often than their controls and when choosing to switch, they demonstrated larger performance costs. These findings illustrate that when required to make their own choices, autistic people demonstrate rigidity at different performance levels, suggesting that intentional control mechanisms might be important for a better understanding of behavioural rigidity in autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edita Poljac
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Centre for Cognition, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands. .,Department of Psychology, Cognition, Action, and Sustainability Unit, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Vincent Hoofs
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Centre for Cognition, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands.,Department of Experimental Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Myrthe M Princen
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Centre for Cognition, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands.,Department of Experimental Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ervin Poljac
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Centre for Cognition, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
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37
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Wong MKY, So WC. Spoken Narrative Assessment: A Supplementary Measure of Children’s Creativity. CREATIVITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/10400419.2016.1229989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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38
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Ten Eycke KD, Müller U. Drawing links between the autism cognitive profile and imagination: Executive function and processing bias in imaginative drawings by children with and without autism. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2016; 22:149-160. [DOI: 10.1177/1362361316668293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Little is known about the relation between cognitive processes and imagination and whether this relation differs between neurotypically developing children and children with autism. To address this issue, we administered a cognitive task battery and Karmiloff-Smith’s drawing task, which requires children to draw imaginative people and houses. For children with autism, executive function significantly predicted imaginative drawing. In neurotypically developing controls, executive function and cognitive-perceptual processing style predicted imaginative drawing, but these associations were moderated by mental age. In younger (neurotypically developing) children, better executive function and a local processing bias were associated with imagination; in older children, only a global bias was associated with imagination. These findings suggest that (a) with development there are changes in the type of cognitive processes involved in imagination and (b) children with autism employ a unique cognitive strategy in imaginative drawing.
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39
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Scheeren AM, Banerjee R, Koot HM, Begeer S. Self-Presentation and the Role of Perspective Taking and Social Motivation in Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2016; 46:649-57. [PMID: 26408326 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-015-2610-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
We compared self-presentation abilities of 132 children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) to those of 41 typically developing (TD) peers, and examined the potential link with their social motivation and perspective taking. Participants introduced themselves to an interviewer in a baseline condition (without incentive) and a self-promotion condition (with incentive). Children with ASD (6-12 years) were just as likely as or even more likely than TD children to highlight personal characteristics that would increase their chances of obtaining the incentive. Thus, they were strategic in their self-presentation. However, adolescents with ASD (12-19 years) were less strategic than TD adolescents as well as children with ASD. We discuss the role of social motivation and perspective taking in children's self-presentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke M Scheeren
- Department of Psychology, Dutch Autism and ADHD Research Center, University of Amsterdam, Weesperplein 4, 1018 XA, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. .,Department of Developmental Psychology, VU University Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 1, 1081 BT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Robin Banerjee
- School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Pevensey Building, Falmer, BN1 9QH, UK
| | - Hans M Koot
- Department of Developmental Psychology, VU University Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 1, 1081 BT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sander Begeer
- Department of Developmental Psychology, VU University Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 1, 1081 BT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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40
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Kenett YN, Gold R, Faust M. The Hyper-Modular Associative Mind: A Computational Analysis of Associative Responses of Persons with Asperger Syndrome. LANGUAGE AND SPEECH 2016; 59:297-313. [PMID: 29924527 DOI: 10.1177/0023830915589397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Rigidity of thought is considered a main characteristic of persons with Asperger syndrome (AS). This rigidity may explain the poor comprehension of unusual semantic relations, frequently exhibited by persons with AS. Research indicates that such deficiency is related to altered mental lexicon organization, but has never been directly examined. The present study used computational network science tools to compare the mental lexicon structure of persons with AS and matched controls. Persons with AS and matched controls generated free associations, and network tools were used to extract and compare the mental lexicon structure of the two groups. The analysis revealed that persons with AS exhibit a hyper-modular semantic organization: their mental lexicon is more compartmentalized compared to matched controls. We argue that this hyper-modularity may be related to the rigidity of thought which characterizes persons with AS and discuss the clinical and more general cognitive implications of our findings.
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41
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Bishop DVM, Norbury CF. Executive functions in children with communication impairments, in relation to autistic symptomatology. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2016; 9:7-27. [PMID: 15618260 DOI: 10.1177/1362361305049027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Previous research has found that people with autism generate few novel responses in ideational fluency tasks, and it has been suggested this deficit is a specific correlate of stereotyped/repetitive behavior. We assessed generativity in children with pragmatic language impairment (PLI) who showed communicative abnormalities resembling those seen in autism. We compared four groups: high-functioning autism; PLI; specific language impairment; and control. Generativity was measured using two fluency tasks previously shown to be sensitive to autistic disorder. Correlational analysis revealed a significant relationship between the percentage of correct responses on the fluency tasks and measures of communicative abnormality. It is often assumed that pragmatic difficulties are caused by limitations of social cognition. This study suggests that difficulties in generating relevant ideas can be another cause of autistic-like communicative abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothy V M Bishop
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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42
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Crespi B, Leach E, Dinsdale N, Mokkonen M, Hurd P. Imagination in human social cognition, autism, and psychotic-affective conditions. Cognition 2016; 150:181-99. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cognition.2016.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2015] [Revised: 02/01/2016] [Accepted: 02/03/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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43
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Jung RE, Flores RA, Hunter D. A New Measure of Imagination Ability: Anatomical Brain Imaging Correlates. Front Psychol 2016; 7:496. [PMID: 27148109 PMCID: PMC4834344 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2016.00496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2015] [Accepted: 03/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Imagination involves episodic memory retrieval, visualization, mental simulation, spatial navigation, and future thinking, making it a complex cognitive construct. Prior studies of imagination have attempted to study various elements of imagination (e.g., visualization), but none have attempted to capture the entirety of imagination ability in a single instrument. Here we describe the Hunter Imagination Questionnaire (HIQ), an instrument designed to assess imagination over an extended period of time, in a naturalistic manner. We hypothesized that the HIQ would be related to measures of creative achievement and to a network of brain regions previously identified to be important to imagination/creative abilities. Eighty subjects were administered the HIQ in an online format; all subjects were administered a broad battery of tests including measures of intelligence, personality, and aptitude, as well as structural Magnetic Resonance Imaging (sMRI). Responses of the HIQ were found to be normally distributed, and exploratory factor analysis yielded four factors. Internal consistency of the HIQ ranged from 0.76 to 0.79, and two factors (“Implementation” and “Learning”) were significantly related to measures of Creative Achievement (Scientific—r = 0.26 and Writing—r = 0.31, respectively), suggesting concurrent validity. We found that the HIQ and its factors were related to a broad network of brain volumes including increased bilateral hippocampi, lingual gyrus, and caudal/rostral middle frontal lobe, and decreased volumes within the nucleus accumbens and regions within the default mode network (e.g., precuneus, posterior cingulate, transverse temporal lobe). The HIQ was found to be a reliable and valid measure of imagination in a cohort of normal human subjects, and was related to brain volumes previously identified as central to imagination including episodic memory retrieval (e.g., hippocampus). We also identified compelling evidence suggesting imagination ability linked to decreased volumes involving the nucleus accumbens and regions within the default mode network. Future research will be important to assess the stability of this instrument in different populations, as well as the complex interaction between imagination and creativity in the human brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rex E Jung
- Department of Psychology, University of New MexicoAlbuquerque, NM, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, University of New MexicoAlbuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Ranee A Flores
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of New Mexico Albuquerque, NM, USA
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44
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Rutherford MD, Subiaul F. Children with autism spectrum disorder have an exceptional explanatory drive. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2015; 20:744-53. [PMID: 26503988 DOI: 10.1177/1362361315605973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
An "explanatory drive" motivates children to explain ambiguity. Individuals with autism spectrum disorders are interested in how systems work, but it is unknown whether they have an explanatory drive. We presented children with and without autism spectrum disorder unsolvable problems in a physical and in a social context and evaluated problem-solving and explanation-seeking responses. In the physical context (but not the social context), the children with autism spectrum disorder showed a stronger explanatory drive than controls. Importantly, the number of explanatory behaviors made by children with autism spectrum disorder in the social context was independent of social and communicative impairments. Children with autism spectrum disorder did not show an exceptional explanatory drive in the social domain. These results suggest that children with autism spectrum disorder have an explanatory drive and that the explanatory drive may be domain specific.
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45
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Pennisi P, Tonacci A, Tartarisco G, Billeci L, Ruta L, Gangemi S, Pioggia G. Autism and social robotics: A systematic review. Autism Res 2015; 9:165-83. [PMID: 26483270 DOI: 10.1002/aur.1527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2015] [Accepted: 07/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Social robotics could be a promising method for Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) treatment. The aim of this article is to carry out a systematic literature review of the studies on this topic that were published in the last 10 years. We tried to address the following questions: can social robots be a useful tool in autism therapy? We followed the PRISMA guidelines, and the protocol was registered within PROSPERO database (CRD42015016158). We found many positive implications in the use of social robots in therapy as for example: ASD subjects often performed better with a robot partner rather than a human partner; sometimes, ASD patients had, toward robots, behaviors that TD patients had toward human agents; ASDs had a lot of social behaviors toward robots; during robotic sessions, ASDs showed reduced repetitive and stereotyped behaviors and, social robots manage to improve spontaneous language during therapy sessions. Therefore, robots provide therapists and researchers a means to connect with autistic subjects in an easier way, but studies in this area are still insufficient. It is necessary to clarify whether sex, intelligence quotient, and age of participants affect the outcome of therapy and whether any beneficial effects only occur during the robotic session or if they are still observable outside the clinical/experimental context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Pennisi
- Clinical Physiology Institute, National Research Council of Italy (IFC-CNR), Messina Unit, 98125, Messina, Italy.,Department of Cognitive Sciences, Educational and Cultural Studies, University of Messina, 98122, Messina, Italy
| | - Alessandro Tonacci
- Clinical Physiology Institute, National Research Council of Italy (IFC-CNR), Pisa Unit, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Gennaro Tartarisco
- Clinical Physiology Institute, National Research Council of Italy (IFC-CNR), Messina Unit, 98125, Messina, Italy
| | - Lucia Billeci
- Clinical Physiology Institute, National Research Council of Italy (IFC-CNR), Pisa Unit, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Liliana Ruta
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Stella Maris Scientific Institute, 56018 Calambrone, Pisa, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Gangemi
- Clinical Physiology Institute, National Research Council of Italy (IFC-CNR), Messina Unit, 98125, Messina, Italy.,Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, School and Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University Hospital "G. Martino", 98125, Messina, Italy
| | - Giovanni Pioggia
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, National Research Council of Italy (ISASI-CNR), Messina Unit, Italy
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46
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Crespi BJ, Go MC. Diametrical diseases reflect evolutionary-genetic tradeoffs: Evidence from psychiatry, neurology, rheumatology, oncology and immunology. Evol Med Public Health 2015; 2015:216-53. [PMID: 26354001 PMCID: PMC4600345 DOI: 10.1093/emph/eov021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2015] [Accepted: 08/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Tradeoffs centrally mediate the expression of human adaptations. We propose that tradeoffs also influence the prevalence and forms of human maladaptation manifest in disease. By this logic, increased risk for one set of diseases commonly engenders decreased risk for another, diametric, set of diseases. We describe evidence for such diametric sets of diseases from epidemiological, genetic and molecular studies in four clinical domains: (i) psychiatry (autism vs psychotic-affective conditions), (ii) rheumatology (osteoarthritis vs osteoporosis), (iii) oncology and neurology (cancer vs neurodegenerative disorders) and (iv) immunology (autoimmunity vs infectious disease). Diametric disorders are important to recognize because genotypes or environmental factors that increase risk for one set of disorders protect from opposite disorders, thereby providing novel and direct insights into disease causes, prevention and therapy. Ascertaining the mechanisms that underlie disease-related tradeoffs should also indicate means of circumventing or alleviating them, and thus reducing the incidence and impacts of human disease in a more general way.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matthew C Go
- Department of Biological Sciences; Department of Archaeology, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, Canada V5A 1S6 Present address: Department of Anthropology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 109 Davenport Hall, 607 S Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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47
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Can the Five Factor Model of Personality Account for the Variability of Autism Symptom Expression? Multivariate Approaches to Behavioral Phenotyping in Adult Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2015; 46:253-272. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-015-2571-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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48
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Abraham A, Hermann C. Biases in probabilistic category learning in relation to social anxiety. Front Psychol 2015; 6:1218. [PMID: 26347685 PMCID: PMC4538570 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Instrumental learning paradigms are rarely employed to investigate the mechanisms underlying acquired fear responses in social anxiety. Here, we adapted a probabilistic category learning paradigm to assess information processing biases as a function of the degree of social anxiety traits in a sample of healthy individuals without a diagnosis of social phobia. Participants were presented with three pairs of neutral faces with differing probabilistic accuracy contingencies (A/B: 80/20, C/D: 70/30, E/F: 60/40). Upon making their choice, negative and positive feedback was conveyed using angry and happy faces, respectively. The highly socially anxious group showed a strong tendency to be more accurate at learning the probability contingency associated with the most ambiguous stimulus pair (E/F: 60/40). Moreover, when pairing the most positively reinforced stimulus or the most negatively reinforced stimulus with all the other stimuli in a test phase, the highly socially anxious group avoided the most negatively reinforced stimulus significantly more than the control group. The results are discussed with reference to avoidance learning and hypersensitivity to negative socially evaluative information associated with social anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Abraham
- School of Social, Psychological and Communication Sciences, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds UK ; Department of Clinical Psychology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen Germany
| | - Christiane Hermann
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen Germany
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49
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The Relationship Between Subthreshold Autistic Traits, Ambiguous Figure Perception and Divergent Thinking. J Autism Dev Disord 2015; 45:4064-73. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-015-2518-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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50
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By the Book: An Analysis of Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Condition Co-constructing Fictional Narratives with Peers. J Autism Dev Disord 2015; 46:361-77. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-015-2524-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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