Document Type

Book Chapter

Publication Date

4-25-2025

Keywords

autism, developmental disorders, experimental psychology, theory of mind, Uta Frith

Disciplines

Cognition and Perception | Developmental Psychology | Experimental Analysis of Behavior

Abstract

Uta Frith (born Aurnhammer on May 25, 1941) is a German psychologist best known for her work on autism. After graduating in experimental psychology from the University of Saarland, she pursued her PhD at the Institute of Psychiatry at the King’s College London, UK. It was during a course in abnormal psychology when she first encountered children diagnosed with autism. Experimental studies by Neil O’Connor and Beate Hermelin intrigued her, especially for applying an experimental perspective to the study of developmental disorders. Based on these experiences, Frith designed experiments that sought to shed light on atypical cognitive processes. Upon obtaining her PhD, she joined the scientific staff at the Medical Research Council, UK, after which she became professor at the University College London.

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