Sign communication in Cri du chat syndrome.

Area of Science:

• Linguistics
• Speech and Language Pathology
• Genetics

Background:

• Cri du chat syndrome (CCS) is a genetic disorder often associated with communication challenges.
• Sign Supported Norwegian (SSN) is an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) method combining spoken language with sign language.
• Previous research on SSN in CCS is limited, necessitating further investigation into its production and intelligibility.

Observation:

• This study examines the production and intelligibility of SSN in two individuals with CCS.
• Deviations in manual parameters, specifically handshape variations, were analyzed.
• The intelligibility of isolated signs, isolated speech, and combined SSN was assessed.

Findings:

• Inter-subject variation and individual consistency in phonetic handshape parameters were observed in SSN production.
• Both participants demonstrated slightly higher intelligibility when analyzing sign articulation and speech production separately.
• A significant increase in intelligibility was achieved when signs and speech were combined in SSN.

Implications:

• SSN is a valuable tool for enhancing communication in children with CCS.
• The combined use of signs and speech in SSN effectively overcomes individual production inaccuracies.
• This research underscores the importance of AAC strategies like SSN for improving language development and social interaction in children with CCS.