Explaining metaphors in high-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder children: A brief report

This study investigated metaphor comprehension in a group of 24 Italian high-functioning ASD children (mean age: 8.5 y.). Children were administered a test that was composed of ‘sensorial metaphors’, which are understood by normally developing preschoolers, that the children had to verbally explain. Two normally developing control groups, which were composed of 5- and 6-year olds, were recruited as well, as the highest age for this test is 6 years. A one-way ANOVA applied to the four scores from the test showed a partial delay in the ASD group with respect to the 6-year-old control group, but not with respect to the 5-year-old control group. The ASD group showed some capabilities in metaphor processing; however, there were also some atypical behaviors that suggest that ASD children process metaphorical stimuli in a particular way.

► A test of metaphor comprehension was administered to high-functioning children. ► The test is validated for typical children 4–6 years old and requires verbal explanation. ► Metaphors are of a sensorial type and are easily explained by preschoolers. ► 24 ASD children (m.a.: 8.5 y.) were compared to 5 and 6 years old typical children. ► ASD children showed both capabilities and atypical behaviors in explaining metaphors.