A comparison of two computer-based programs designed to improve facial expression understanding in children with autism

Abstract

This randomized clinical trial compared models used to explain facial expression understanding difficulties experienced by individuals with autism. The intervention effects of two computer-based training programs, The Transporters and Let’s Face It! were investigated in young children with autism (N = 21), aged 4-8 years old. The Transporters is an animated series designed to enhance emotion comprehension informed by Theory of Mind and Extreme Male Brain theories. Let’s Face It! has seven interactive games designed to improve children’s visual face perception strategies and is informed by Weak Central Coherence theory. Children were assessed on measures before and after 20 hours of intervention. Compared to children randomized to a no treatment control group (n = 7), children receiving The Transporters training (n = 8) or Let’s Face It! program (n = 6) experienced no significant improvement. Verbal ability and age of participants was linked to performance on the facial understanding measures.