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Brief report: self-presentation of children with autism spectrum disorders

Sander Begeer1, Robin Banerjee, Patty Lunenburg

  • 1Department of Developmental Psychology, VU University Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 1, 1081, BT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. S.Begeer@psy.vu.nl

Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
|March 4, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Children with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder (HFASD) use fewer positive self-statements and are less strategic in self-promotion. This impacts their ability to present themselves effectively for personal gain.

Area of Science:

  • Developmental Psychology
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders
  • Social Cognition

Background:

  • Children with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder (HFASD) often exhibit differences in social interaction and communication.
  • Understanding self-presentational behavior is crucial for social integration and personal success.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate and compare the self-presentational behaviors of children with HFASD and typically developing children.
  • To examine how children with HFASD adjust their self-presentation for personal gain (self-promotion).

Main Methods:

  • A study involving 43 children with HFASD and 43 matched typically developing controls (ages 6-12).
  • Children were asked to describe themselves in a baseline condition and a self-promotion condition.
  • Theory of Mind skills were assessed and controlled for in the analysis.

Main Results:

  • Children with HFASD used fewer positive self-statements in the baseline condition.
  • Compared to controls, children with HFASD were less goal-directed during self-promotion.
  • While children with HFASD do alter self-presentation for gain, it is less strategic and convincing.

Conclusions:

  • Children with HFASD demonstrate distinct self-presentational patterns compared to typically developing peers.
  • Difficulties in strategic self-promotion may present challenges for children with HFASD in social and personal contexts.
  • Interventions could potentially enhance self-presentation skills in children with HFASD.

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