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Communication abilities and Rett syndrome
1Department of Speech and Hearing, University of Queensland, Australia.
Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
|June 1, 1992
Summary
Children with Rett syndrome (RS) exhibit preintentional communication, consistent with profound intellectual disability. Their cognitive performance aligns with early sensorimotor stages, impacting purposeful behavior and communication development.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Linguistics
Background:
- Rett syndrome (RS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder impacting communication.
- Previous research has not detailed the communicative competence or intentionality in children with RS.
- Understanding communication in RS is crucial for therapeutic interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively describe the communicative behaviors of girls with Rett syndrome.
- To assess the intentionality of communication in this population.
- To correlate communication levels with cognitive performance.
Main Methods:
- Investigated 6 girls diagnosed with Rett syndrome, aged 2-13 years.
- Assessed communicative behaviors and intentionality.
- Evaluated cognitive performance using Piagetian Sensorimotor Stages, specifically Means-End behavior.
Main Results:
- All participants demonstrated preintentional communication.
- Cognitive assessments indicated profound intellectual disability.
- No purposeful (Means-End) behavior beyond Piagetian Sensorimotor Stage III was observed.
Conclusions:
- The preintentional communication level in girls with RS is consistent with their profound intellectual disability.
- Communication in Rett syndrome appears to be at a preintentional level, linked to cognitive deficits.
- Findings have implications for tailoring therapeutic interventions for individuals with Rett syndrome.
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