| The goal of the present study was to examine the role of executive functioning in autobiographical memory retrieval in young adults with Asperger's Syndrome (AS). Autobiographical memory was conceptualized according to the Conway & Pleydell-Pearce (2000) cognitive-motivational model, which suggests that recall of autobiographical knowledge is a complex process, influenced by a number of cognitive correlates including executive functioning. This model also suggests that autobiographical memory is linked to the development of self-identity and the formation formation of personal goals over time. Little is known about autobiographical memory abilities in individuals with AS; however, deficits in episodic memory and executive functioning are well documented in this population. Participants included 11 adults with AS and 11 matched controls. A new measure of autobiographical memory was employed in the study (Autobiographical Interview, Levine, Svoboda, Hay, Winocur, & Moscovitch, 2002). The Autobiographical Interview assesses recall of autobiographical memories across major life periods, including episodic features (e.g. time, place), and semantic features (e.g., general knowledge, integration with other events). The Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System- Tower Test was used to test relationships between executive functioning and autobiographical memory. Participants completed standardized measures of IQ, verbal memory, personal semantic memory, and mood functioning. The results of this study suggested that adults individuals with AS exhibit unique autobiographical memory abilities. They produced autobiographical memories that were specific in time and place across different lifetime periods; however, their memories contained fewer episodic details (relative to overall details) compared to a matched control group. In addition, the AS group,: rated their memories as more personally important integrated the memories into a larger context,; and produced more references to emotional state during recall of remote memories. With respect to executive functioning, the AS group scored significantly lower than controls, but still within the average range for their corrected age, on most aspects of the Tower Test. Executive function was significantly correlated with autobiographical memory recall; however, results suggest that this relationship is complex. The results contribute to our understanding of executive functioning and autobiographical memory retrieval in AS and offer support for the Conway and Pleydell-Pearce model. New directions for research in this area are discussed. |
