Intention perception in high functioning people with autism spectrum disorders using animacy displays derived from human actions

McAleer, P. , Kay, J.W. , Pollick, F.E. and Rutherford, M.D. (2011) Intention perception in high functioning people with autism spectrum disorders using animacy displays derived from human actions. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 41(8), pp. 1053-1063. (doi: 10.1007/s10803-010-1130-8) (PMID:21069445)

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Abstract

The perception of intent in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) often relies on synthetic animacy displays. This study tests intention perception in ASD via animacy stimuli derived from human motion. Using a forced choice task, 28 participants (14 ASDs; 14 age and verbal-I.Q. matched controls) categorized displays of Chasing, Fighting, Flirting, Following, Guarding and Playing, from two viewpoints (side, overhead) in both animacy and full video displays. Detailed analysis revealed no differences between populations in accuracy, or response patterns. Collapsing across groups revealed Following and Video displays to be most accurately perceived. The stimuli and intentions used are compared to those of previous studies, and the implication of our results on the understanding of Theory of Mind in ASD is discussed.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:McAleer, Dr Phil and Pollick, Professor Frank and Kay, Dr James
Authors: McAleer, P., Kay, J.W., Pollick, F.E., and Rutherford, M.D.
Subjects:B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Psychology
College of Science and Engineering > School of Mathematics and Statistics > Statistics
Journal Name:Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
Publisher:Springer
ISSN:0162-3257
ISSN (Online):1573-3432
Published Online:11 November 2010

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