Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): similarities in pragmatic language...

Area of Science:

• Linguistics
• Developmental Psychology
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Pragmatics, the social use of language, is challenging for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Developmental Language Disorder (DLD).
• The specific nature and underlying causes of these pragmatic language (PL) difficulties in ASD versus DLD require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically review empirical literature comparing the pragmatic language abilities of children with ASD and children with DLD.
• To elucidate the similarities and differences in PL challenges between these two neurodevelopmental conditions.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review of thirteen empirical studies was conducted.
• Studies were selected based on established inclusion criteria relevant to pragmatic language in ASD and DLD.

Main Results:

• Both children with ASD and children with DLD exhibited difficulties in pragmatic language.
• Significant differences were noted, with children with ASD generally facing more profound challenges.
• Pragmatic language abilities emerged as a potential distinguishing marker between ASD and DLD.

Conclusions:

• Despite overlapping pragmatic language deficits, the underlying mechanisms likely differ between ASD and DLD.
• These distinctions in pragmatic language functioning suggest it can serve as a key feature differentiating the two conditions.