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Vocalization development in toddlers with autism spectrum disorder.
Allison M Plumb1, Amy M Wetherby
1Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA. amp0016@auburn.edu
Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research : JSLHR
|January 1, 2013
Summary
Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) exhibit distinct vocalization patterns in their second year, with fewer speech sounds and more atypical and distress vocalizations. Early communicative vocalizations predict later language skills.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Linguistics
- Pediatric Neurology
Background:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting social interaction and communication.
- Early identification of ASD is crucial for timely intervention and improved outcomes.
- Vocal development in infancy is a key area for understanding early communication and potential developmental differences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate vocalization patterns in infants at high risk for ASD during their second year of life.
- To explore the relationship between vocalizations and broader developmental trajectories in children.
- To identify potential early vocal biomarkers for ASD.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 125 children aged 18-24 months was studied, including those diagnosed with ASD, developmental delays (DD), and typical development (TD).
- Vocalizations were precisely measured by coding video-recorded behavior samples using the Communication and Symbolic Behavior Scales Developmental Profile.
- Statistical analyses were performed to compare vocalization types across groups and examine correlations with developmental measures.
Main Results:
- Children with ASD showed a lower proportion of speech-sound vocalizations and a higher proportion of atypical vocalizations compared to TD children.
- The ASD group exhibited a higher proportion of distress vocalizations than both TD and DD groups.
- In the ASD group, speech-sound vocalizations correlated with concurrent and predictive developmental levels, and early communicative vocalizations predicted later expressive language.
Conclusions:
- Distress vocalizations may serve as a potential early indicator for ASD, warranting further investigation.
- The study underscores the significance of early communicative vocalizations for predicting subsequent language development in children.
- Findings highlight the importance of detailed vocal analysis in the second year of life for understanding ASD development.
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