Figure Disembedding: The Gottschaldt's Hidden Figure Test in Children with Typical Development and Autism

J Autism Dev Disord. 2022 Sep;52(9):3790-3799. doi: 10.1007/s10803-021-05259-3. Epub 2021 Sep 2.

Abstract

In two studies, we used the Gottschaldt's Hidden Figure Test (GHFT) for assessing figure disembedding ability in children aged 7-11. Study 1 demonstrated in a large sample of typically developing children that GHFT accuracy and time scores differed across age groups, without sex and socioeconomic differences. Thus, we provided normative data only taking into account children's age. In Study 2, GHFT normative values were used to assess children with autism, who were also compared with a closely age-matched group of typical controls. Children with autism achieved time scores at or above the 50th centile and significantly differed from the controls for time score. The GHFT seems a valuable tool for defining the cognitive profile of children with autism.

Keywords: Figure disembedding; Hidden figures; Perception of details; Perceptual style.

MeSH terms

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder* / psychology
  • Autistic Disorder* / diagnosis
  • Child
  • Humans