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Humour Comprehension and Use of Mental State Language in Williams Syndrome and Down Syndrome

Author

Listed:
  • Smriti Krishan
  • Jennifer Batchelor

    (Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Australia
    Centre for Atypical Neurodevelopment, Macquarie University, Australia)

  • Melanie Porter

    (Centre for Atypical Neurodevelopment, Macquarie University, Australia)

Abstract

Good humor comprehension and mental state language use is reported to be associated with good theory of mind (ToM) capabilities. There is limited research on humor comprehension in Williams Syndrome (WS) and Down Syndrome (DS), but related research in non-literal language and humour comprehension in people with intellectual disabilities suggest humor comprehension may be impaired in these populations. Furthermore, there is mixed evidence for ToM in WS and DS and limited research exists on the use of mental state language in either WS or DS. So far, the literature suggests that people with WS have are good at inferring emotions, however both WS and DS individuals have difficulties with producing cognitive language (e.g., thinks, believes). The current study sought to examine humour comprehension and use of mental state language in WS and DS relative to one another and relative to neuro typical controls, as well as the relationship between humour comprehension and mental state language use. Participants (30 WS; 18 DS; 27 CA; 30 MA controls-17 MA matched to WS; 13 MA matched to DS) were shown 23 cartoon jokes and were asked to explain what was funny.

Suggested Citation

  • Smriti Krishan & Jennifer Batchelor & Melanie Porter, 2017. "Humour Comprehension and Use of Mental State Language in Williams Syndrome and Down Syndrome," Global Journal of Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities, Juniper Publishers Inc., vol. 2(4), pages 107-118, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:adp:jgjidd:v:2:y:2017:i:4:p:107-118
    DOI: 10.19080/GJIDD.2017.02.555594
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