Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 7, 2026

Using the Visual World Paradigm to Study Sentence Comprehension in Mandarin-Speaking Children with Autism
Published on: October 3, 2018
A Relationship Between Early Language Skills and Adult Autistic-Like Traits: Evidence from a Longitudinal
Rebecca Armstrong1, Andrew J O Whitehouse2, James G Scott3,4
1School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Therapies Building (84A), Services Road, St Lucia, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia. r.armstrong@uqconnect.edu.au.
Abstract:
The current study examined the relationship between early language ability and autistic-like traits in adulthood, utilising data from 644 participants from a longitudinal study of the general population. Language performance at 2 years was measured with the Language Development Survey (LDS), and at 20 years the participants completed the Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ). Vocabulary size at 2 years was negatively associated with Total AQ score, as well as scores on the Communication, and Social Skills subscales. Adults who had been late talkers were also more likely to have 'high' scores on the Communication subscale. This is the first study to show an association between early language ability and autistic-like traits in adulthood.
More Related Videos
10:11Portable Intermodal Preferential Looking IPL: Investigating Language Comprehension in Typically Developing Toddlers and Young Children with Autism
Published on: December 14, 2012
09:13Testing Sensory and Multisensory Function in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Published on: April 22, 2015
Related Concept Videos
Autism Spectrum Disorder
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
Language Development
The critical period for language acquisition suggests that the ability to acquire language is at its peak early in life. As people age, this proficiency decreases. Language development begins very...
Language and Cognition
Relationship with Parents: Attachment
Socioemotional Development during Infancy
Primary Temperament Types
Lateralization