Atypical Social Modulation of Imitation in Autism Spectrum Conditions

Appropriate modulation of imitation according to social context is important for successful social interaction. In the present
study we subliminally primed high-functioning adults with ASC and age- and IQ-matched controls with either a pro- or non-
social attitude. Following priming, an automatic imitation paradigm was used to acquire an index of imitation. Whereas imitation
levels were higher for pro-socially primed relative to non-socially primed control participants, there was no difference between
pro- and non- socially primed individuals with ASC. We conclude that high-functioning adults with ASC demonstrate atypical
social modulation of imitation. Given the importance of imitation in social interaction we speculate that difficulties with
the modulation of imitation may contribute to the social problems characteristic of ASC.