Autobiographical Memory Retrieval in Young Adults with Asperger's Syndrome / High Functioning Autism

Background: Autobiographical memory is a complex memory system linked to the development of self-identity and the formation of personal goals over time (Conway and Pleydell-Pearce, 2000). Impairments in episodic memory have been well documented in AS/HFA; however, less is known about autobiographical memory recall in this population. Conway and Pleydell-Pearce (2000) proposed a cognitive-motivational model of autobiographical memory that suggests a primary role of executive functioning (e.g., planning and goal-directed behaviour). Executive deficits have been well documented in autism; however, the impact of these deficits on autobiographical memory is not well understood.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to examine autobiographical memory retrieval in adults with AS/HFA and a matched control group without this diagnosis. This study examined differences in autobiographical memory recall between these groups and investigated possible factors (specifically, executive functioning) that contribute to these differences.

Methods: Participants: 11 adults with AS/HFA and 11 matched controls. Primary measures: the Autobiographical Interview (Levine, et al., 2002), which assesses recall of autobiographical memories across major life periods and the DKEFS Tower Test. Participants also completed standardized measures of IQ, verbal memory, personal semantic memory, and mood functioning.

Results: Compared to controls, the AS/HFA group recalled a proportionally lower number of episodic details for remote events, integrated the memories into a larger life context, and produced more references to emotional state and thoughts during recall of remote memories. The AS/HFA group scored significantly lower than controls, but still within the average range for their corrected age, on most aspects of the Tower Test.

Conclusions: The results of this study suggested that adults with AS/HFA exhibit unique autobiographical memory abilities. Executive function was significantly correlated with autobiographical memory recall; however, the relationship is complex. Implications for treatment will be discussed.