Work

Evaluating Causal Psychological Models: A Study of Imitation Theories of Autism Using a Large Sample

Year: 2023

Type: preprint

Abstract: We used a large convenience sample (n=22,228) from the Simons Powering Autism Research (SPARK) dataset to causal, explanatory theories of autism positing a key role of imitation ability within the same, large sample. We used a highly theory-constrained approach, formalizing statistical models based on the proposals of Ornitz & Ritvo (1968), Rogers & Pennington (1991) and Mostofsky & Ewen (2011). Results disconfirmatory for the accounts of Rogers & Pennington and Mostofsky & Ewen, however limitations of the convenience sample affected the strength of the inference. While the results did not disconfirm the tested portions of Ornitz & Ritvo’s model linking sensory-motor function with social engagement and language, they did entail that other mechanisms must also be in play.

DOI: 10.31234/osf.io/qfv5c

Authors: Bohao Tang, Ericka Wodka, Brian Caffo, Joshua Ewen

Language: English

Topic: Autism Spectrum Disorder Research

Subfield: Cognitive Neuroscience

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funder: Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative

OpenAlex ID: W4313427851

Cites: 56

Cited by: 1

Related to: 10