Theory of Mind Reasoning and its Relationship to Executive and Social Functioning in 10-Year-Olds
Date
2014-06-27
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Abstract
Theory of mind (ToM) is the ability to make inferences about mental states, though little research has examined ToM development in middle childhood. Recent studies have distinguished inferencing about beliefs (cognitive ToM) and emotions (affective ToM). ToM has also been associated with executive and social functioning. The current study examined advanced cognitive and affective ToM in 10-year-olds (N = 56) using false-belief and irony tasks. In addition, working memory, inhibition, and set-shifting abilities were assessed, along with empathy and bullying/victimization. Results show that cognitive ToM is more advanced than affective ToM in this age group. While cognitive false-belief was positively associated with inhibition and set-shifting, irony comprehension was negatively associated with these executive functions. Finally, affective false-belief was associated with less instances of bullying. Taken together, cognitive and affective ToM may develop at different rates and be differentially related to functioning.
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Psychology--Clinical, Psychology--Cognitive, Psychology--Developmental
Citation
Cassetta, B. (2014). Theory of Mind Reasoning and its Relationship to Executive and Social Functioning in 10-Year-Olds (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca. doi:10.11575/PRISM/28266