A new computerised advanced theory of mind measure for children with Asperger syndrome: the ATOMIC.

Overview

This study examined the ability of children with Asperger Syndrome (AS) to attribute mental states to characters in a new computerised, advanced theory of mind measure: The Animated Theory of Mind Inventory for Children (ATOMIC). Results showed that children with AS matched on IQ, verbal comprehension, age and gender performed equivalently on central coherence questions, but more poorly on the theory of mind questions compared with controls. A significant relationship was found between performance on ATOMIC and accuracy of mental state explanations provided on (Happé's, Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 24, 129-154, 1994) Strange Stories Task, supporting the validity of the new measure. Limitations of the study and suggestions for future research are discussed.