Assessing recollection and familiarity in low functioning autism.

Methods to assess recollection and familiarity separately in autism spectrum disorder were recently developed and piloted (Bigham et al. in J Autism Dev Disord 40:878-889, 2010). The preliminary data obtained via these methods showed that whereas recollection was mildly impaired in high functioning autism, familiarity was spared. The current study set out to replicate the methods of assessment for recollection and familiarity devised by Bigham and her colleagues with individuals diagnosed with low functioning autism (LFA). Three critical modifications to the original paradigms were made within the current study. The modifications and implications of the findings for individuals with LFA will be discussed.