A test of central coherence theory: Can adults with high-functioning autism or Asperger syndrome integrate fragments of an object?

Abstract

Introduction. Visuoconceptual integration was explored as a test of central coherence theory (Frith, 1989). Individuals with autism are thought to have weak central coherence so the prediction was that these individuals would show an impaired ability to integrate visual information. Method. Two groups with autistic disorder were recruited: adults with either autism or Asperger syndrome. All were normally intelligent and were matched with members of the general population of Cambridge. A modified version of the Hooper Visual Organisation Test was used in which line drawings depicting simple objects had been cut into pieces and arranged in a puzzle-like fashion. The participants were required to conceptually integrate the fragments in order to identify the object. A second condition presented just a single piece of an object and participants were required to identify objects from a single piece. Results. Both clinical groups were significantly impaired in their ability to integrate pieces holistically, but they were unimpaired in their ability to identify an object from a single piece. Conclusion. Individuals with an autistic disorder are less able to integrate visual elements. Of the two clinical groups, the autism group had the greater deficit, and it applied to the majority of the group. Possible explanations for the clinical groups' weak central coherence are explored.