Information processing in autistic children: more sequential or more simultaneous?

The objective of this study was to refine the understanding of cognitive troubles in autism and to clarify the modes of information processing mobilized by the subjects. Eight children were examined, aged 4;9-9;1, with a diagnosis of moderate autism. The Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children (K-ABC) was presented to each child. The results support an executive functioning deficit interpretation and a weak drive for central coherence in autism. Practical implications of this study in terms of follow up are also discussed.