Sequence Learning with Stochastic Feedback in a Cross-Cultural Sample of Boys in the Autistic Spectrum

Abstract

The study investigated sequence learning from stochastic feedback in boys with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and typically developed (TD) boys. We asked boys with ASD from Nigeria and the UK as well as age-and gender-matched controls (also males only) to deduce a sequence of four left and right button presses, LLRR, RRLL, LRLR, RLRL, LRRL and RLLR from a feedback signal. Results revealed no significant differences between the boys with ASD from Nigeria and the UK as both groups of boys improved during the task. Most interestingly, the ASD and TD group of boys learning differed for certainty, but not uncertainty of feedback. We concluded that further research is needed why boys with ASD did not benefit from true, logical and reliable feedback.