Research: Children with Autism

The Interdisciplinary Social Cognition Laboratory seeks to understand both typical and atypical development. Our studies always include typically-developing children, but we are particularly interested in children diagnosed with autism because these children have a specific deficit in social intelligence. What is special about children with autism? Autism is characterized by the following impairments: (1) Language and Communication , (2) Repetitive, Restricted or Patterned Activities , (3) Social Interaction. Perhaps as a consequence of these impairments, children with autism have difficulties with imitation learning. A significant interest of this laboratory is understanding the nature and extent of the imitation learning deficit in autism. Imitation is of particular significance as it plays a major role in a number of therapeutic interventions. To this end, we’re exploring the following questions: Do children have a general difficulty copying novel abstract rules? Do children with autism have a specific difficulty copying novel spatial/motor rules? Which imitation skills are preserved in children with autism? For more information see Child Research.

Click below to see videos of some of the imitation learning problems we present to typically-developing children and children with autism. If you’re a parent and are interested in participating, please contact Dr. Subiaul (subiaul@gwu.edu) or call the Social Cognition Laboratory (202) 994-1344.