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Updated: Jun 6, 2026
09:13
A Real-world What-Where-When Memory Test
Published on: May 16, 2017
A quantitative measure of JS's memory
Dorit Ben Shalom1, Yifat Faran, Jill Boucher
1Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience, Ben Gurion University, Israel. doritb@bgu.ac.il
Autism : the International Journal of Research and Practice
|December 15, 2010
Summary
This study compares the memory profile of an adult with Asperger syndrome (AS) to a group with high-functioning autism (HFA). JS exhibits memory difficulties in both verbal and visual domains, unlike the HFA group.
Area of Science:
- Neuropsychology
- Autism Spectrum Disorder Research
Background:
- Previous research documented self-reported memory difficulties in an adult with Asperger syndrome (AS).
- This study aimed to quantitatively compare the memory profile of this individual (JS) with adults diagnosed with high-functioning autism (HFA).
Observation:
- JS's memory performance was assessed using the Wechsler Memory Scale-III (WMS-III).
- His performance was compared to a normative group of adults with HFA from a prior WMS-III study.
Findings:
- JS's self-reported memory deficits were largely supported by WMS-III results.
- His performance fell at the lower end of the HFA group examined.
- Unlike the HFA group, JS demonstrated reduced performance on both verbal and visual memory measures.
Implications:
- The findings suggest that individuals with AS may experience broader memory impairments than previously characterized within HFA groups.
- Qualitative analysis indicates JS might employ language-based compensatory strategies for episodic memory deficits.
- Further research is needed to explore memory profiles and compensatory mechanisms in adults with AS.
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