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Weak Central Coherence and Its Relations to Theory of Mind and Anxiety in Autism

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Abstract

Recent theory and research suggests that weak central coherence, a specific perceptual-cognitive style, underlies the central disturbance in autism. This study sought to provide a test of the weak central coherence hypothesis. In addition, this study explored the relations between the weak central coherence hypothesis, theory of mind skills, and social-emotional functioning in a group of high functioning children with autism. Results revealed equivocal support for the weak central coherence hypothesis, but found moderate correlations between verbal weak central coherence and theory of mind measures. No significant findings were observed between weak central coherence measures and social-emotional functioning.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, USA

    Courtney P. Burnette, Peter C. Mundy, Steven K. Sutton, Amy E. Vaughan & David Charak

  2. Tavistock Clinic, University College of London, Gower street, London WCIE, 6BT, UK

    Jessica A. Meyer

  3. Department of Psychology, University of Miami, FHF Building, 5665 Ponce De Leon Blvd, Coral Gables FL, 33146, USA

    Courtney P. Burnette

Authors
  1. Courtney P. Burnette
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  2. Peter C. Mundy
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  3. Jessica A. Meyer
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  4. Steven K. Sutton
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  5. Amy E. Vaughan
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  6. David Charak
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Correspondence to Courtney P. Burnette.

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Burnette, C.P., Mundy, P.C., Meyer, J.A. et al. Weak Central Coherence and Its Relations to Theory of Mind and Anxiety in Autism. J Autism Dev Disord 35, 63–73 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-004-1035-5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-004-1035-5

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