A new look at language and communication in autism
The British Journal of Disorders of Communication
|August 1, 1989
Summary
Autism
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Science
- Developmental Psychology
- Linguistics
Background:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) presents with diverse communication challenges.
- Distinguishing autism-specific impairments from general language difficulties is crucial for targeted interventions.
- Previous research highlights social and communication deficits in autistic individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To delineate the unique language and communication impairments in autism.
- To contrast these specific deficits with non-specific impairments observed in other conditions.
- To explore the underlying cognitive mechanisms contributing to these communication failures.
Main Methods:
- This review synthesizes existing literature on language and communication in autism.
- It contrasts specific autistic communication patterns with broader language impairments.
- The review examines cognitive theories related to social cognition and representation.
Main Results:
- Unique autistic impairments are linked to intentional communication, not instrumental use of language.
- Specific communication failures involve difficulties in calculating relevance and understanding mental states.
- These deficits stem from a cognitive dysfunction in forming and using second-order representations.
Conclusions:
- The core cognitive dysfunction in autism impacts intentional communication, social relationships, and imaginative play.
- Understanding the role of second-order representations offers insight into the multifaceted nature of autism.
- Targeted interventions may benefit from addressing these specific cognitive and communicative challenges.
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