Autism Spectrum Disorder — (Part Two) Theory of Mind: Importance of Early Identification of Autism Spectrum Disorder

“Autism is like a rainbow; it has a bright and darker side. But every shade and color is beautiful and important.” Rosie Tennant Doran

Theory of Mind

The hallmark characteristic of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is lack or delay in the development of something called Theory of Mind.

Theory of Mind is the recognition that other people have thoughts, ideas and feelings that may be different than our own. Research indicated that this is the area that is consistently delayed or sometimes even absent in individuals on the Autism Spectrum.

Theory of Mind or absence of Theory of Mind impacts one’s ability to show empathy, to take other people’s perspectives, to predict or interpret the behaviors as well as the intentions of the others.

Sally-Anne Test

The classic test for mind reading is the Sally Anne Test. It is the test that normal kids are expected to pass when they’re five years old.