Perspective Taking in Children with Autism

We tested for the replicability of studies that show differences between the perspective taking responses of children with autism, Down syndrome, and those who are typically developing. We also evaluated the results of modified False Beliefs Tests, and the effects that different prompts had on the performance of the participants. Finally, we analyzed the potential differences in perspective taking repertoires of the participants in relation to other behaviors that might be related or that might be prerequisites for the development of functional equivalent relations. The participants were 15 children between the ages of 4 and 6. Five were typically developing, five were diagnosed with Down syndrome, and five had been diagnosed with autism. The results are discussed in terms of their similarity to previous findings, how existing deficits cannot be linked to a specific disability, and the possible identification of prerequisite skills, as well as procedures that might possibly assist in the acquisition of th...