Theory of Mind training in children with autism.

At some point in their lives, most children with autism are treated with a social skills training program. In most cases, these treatments include the training of empathic skills, or Theory of Mind. Despite the multitude of children that are participating in these forms of treatment, few studies have shown evidence for their effectiveness. The current study uses a randomized controlled design tot test the effectiveness of a 8-week Theory of Mind training in 8 to 13 year old children with Autism Spectrum disorders. It examines which patients with which characteristics (like type of diagnoses, Wing-subtypes, comorbidity) will benefit most from the intervention. The study will differentiate between conceptual and practical social skills.

1. The treatment group will increase their Theory of Mind skills in comparison to the waitlist control group;

2. The conceptual skills will improve at a higher rate than the practical skills.

1. Baseline;

2. Posttest (2 months);

3. Follow up (6 months).

Treatment group: The Theory of Mind training is a manualized treatment program, that includes 8 weekly sessions of approximately 1,5 hour each, provided to 5 or 6 children simultaneously. The training includes a variety of structured activities, wich increasingly focus on the use of Theory of Mind skills. Additionaly parents attend two parent trainingsessions, where they are informed about the content of the training and about the progress of their children, and given suggestions how to promote social cognition.



Waitlist control group: Care as usual.