Object play in infants with autism: methodological issues in retrospective video analysis

Am J Occup Ther. 2005 Jan-Feb;59(1):20-30. doi: 10.5014/ajot.59.1.20.

Abstract

Objectives: Using a taxonomy of object play, this study describes methodological issues in using retrospective video analysis and computer-based coding as a research tool for early identification of autism.

Method: Home videos of 32 infants with autism (n= 11), developmental delay (n= 10), and typical development (n= 11) were edited and analyzed for duration and highest level of object play in four hierarchical categories (exploratory, relational, functional, symbolic) using The Observer 3.0.

Results: The three groups had similar levels of engagement with objects, and no statistically significant differences in duration of exploratory play. Higher levels of play were rarely evident at 9-12 months, however, the highest level achieved (functional play) was apparent only in the typical group.

Conclusion: This study provides the first naturalistic investigation of object play skills in infants with autism ages 9-12 months. It also demonstrates feasibility for using computer-based coding technology within the context of retrospective video analysis methods. Duration of exploratory play was not a discriminating feature of autism at this early age.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Autistic Disorder / diagnosis*
  • Autistic Disorder / psychology
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Computing Methodologies
  • Data Collection*
  • Developmental Disabilities / diagnosis
  • Developmental Disabilities / psychology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Play and Playthings / psychology*
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Videotape Recording*