This study provides a comprehensive picture of three core elements (Intentions, Desires, Beliefs) of Theory of Mind (ToM) in young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD, n = 63,Mage = 55... Show moreThis study provides a comprehensive picture of three core elements (Intentions, Desires, Beliefs) of Theory of Mind (ToM) in young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD, n = 63,Mage = 55 months) and typically developing children (TD, n = 69, Mage = 54 months). Outcomes showed that ASD and TD children understood intentional actions equally well. Yet, children with ASD lacked the social interest to share intentions. Additionally, children with ASD had more difficulties in understanding others’ desires and beliefs compared to their TD peers. It is discussed whether the ToM delay seen in children with ASD is a motivational or a conceptual problem. Show less
In comparison to hearing children, children with hearing loss more often experience social-emotional problems. This thesis aimed to assess whether this was also true for 1-to-5-year-old children... Show moreIn comparison to hearing children, children with hearing loss more often experience social-emotional problems. This thesis aimed to assess whether this was also true for 1-to-5-year-old children who had received a cochlear implant (CI) to remediate their hearing loss. In comparison to hearing peers, children with CI were found to be delayed on some but not all aspects of social-emotional functioning. No delays were found regarding social behavior or empathy. However, children with CI did show delays on theory of mind understanding and on the development of moral emotions. Against expectations, language skills did not have a major influence on children's social-emotional development. Parents in both groups had adopted similar parenting styles. Positive parenting was associated with better social-emotional functioning in children, whereas negative or uninvolved parenting were associated with lower social-emotional functioning. Based on this thesis we can conclude that a CI is beneficial for the social-emotional development of children with a hearing loss. However, these children are still at risk of developing delays in some areas of social-emotional functioning. Furthermore, we should not assume that children with CI who have a strong language development will also show a healthy social-emotional development. Show less
