Which of the following is true of the cognitive approach to autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?

• A. It argues that ASD symptoms are entirely due to environmental toxins.
• B. It focuses primarily on genetic mutations as the sole cause of ASD.
• C. It suggests that ASD is best understood through classical conditioning principles.
• D. It emphasizes deficits in theory of mind and executive functioning as key features of ASD.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the cognitive approach to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) focuses on how individuals with ASD process information, particularly in areas like social cognition and executive functioning.
2. Recognize that this approach highlights specific cognitive deficits, such as difficulties with theory of mind, which is the ability to attribute mental states to oneself and others.
3. Note that executive functioning deficits, including challenges with planning, flexibility, and inhibitory control, are also emphasized as key features in ASD according to the cognitive perspective.
4. Contrast this with other explanations, such as environmental toxins or genetic mutations, which belong more to biological or environmental frameworks rather than the cognitive approach.
5. Understand that classical conditioning principles relate to behavioral theories and are not the primary focus of the cognitive approach to explaining ASD symptoms.