Efeitos de um modelo de intervenção comportamental de baixa intensidade no aprimoramento da teoria da mente em crianças com autismo : um estudo de caso

Abstract

In this case study, the efficacy of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) was explored enhancing Theory of Mind (ToM) skills in an 11-year-old patient diagnosed Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The ability to understand own and others' mental states, also known as ToM, is frequently compromised in ASD, leading to difficulties in communication and social interaction. The intervention used in this study, conducted in a controlled environment over a duration of 12 hours, focused on training specific skills, including the ability to attribute mental states to others. Using a single-case study design, including preand post-testing, a significant increase was observed in the frequency of terms expressing mental states and, in the ability, to comment on personal life events, such as thinking, believing, knowing, remembering, wanting, or feeling. The individualized behavior-analytic intervention curriculum proved effective, as it aimed to enhance ToM. The findings of this report indicate the effectiveness of ToM enhancement in ASD, contributing to personalized clinical interventions and advancing understanding of the neural substrates of complex cognitive abilities in neurodiverse.