The Developmental Process of Attachment in Children with Autistic Disorder : In the Relationship with a Specific Other

This study examined the developmental process of attachment to a specific other in children with autistic disorder. In the present case study, subject was 4-years children with autistic disorder. From 4 years 2 monthes to 5years 3 months, VTR records in the play situation, were examined. Results were as follows ; (1) the developmental process of attachment to a specific other was fundamentally similar to one of normal children. But attachment was sensitive to attitudes of a specific other. (2) In order to promote attachment, it was effective to tumble on a trampoline with a specific other. (3) The development process of attachment was correlated to other domain such as symbolic function. (4) According to the change of attachment, verbal expressions to a specific other were changed. By establishment of attachment, his verbal expression reached at a level of expression to his mother. (5) Using a mirror, communication in play situation was activated. A mirror may be effevtive as a vehicle of self-expression in children with autistic disorder