Is the Kent-Rosanoff Word Association Task Helpful in Characterizing Language Difficulties in 6- to 9-Year-Old
Carmela Miniscalco1, Jakob Åsberg Johnels, Emilia Carlsson
1Gillberg Neuropsychiatry Centre, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
Autism & Developmental Language Impairments
|January 23, 2026
Summary
The Kent-Rosanoff word association task did not differentiate children with autism and language disorder (ALD) from those with autism and average language (ALN). Further research is needed to find sensitive measures for semantic abilities in children with autism.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Developmental Linguistics
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Background:
- Previous research suggests the Kent-Rosanoff task can detect language disorder (LD) in children.
- This study investigates its utility in differentiating autism subgroups based on language ability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the performance patterns of the Kent-Rosanoff task in children with autism and language disorder (ALD) versus children with autism and average language (ALN).
- To compare word association responses between ALD and ALN groups.
Main Methods:
- Forty-six children (6-9 years) with autism participated.
- A comprehensive language assessment and the Kent-Rosanoff task were administered.
- Responses were categorized into phonological, syntagmatic, paradigmatic, and other/no response.
Main Results:
- No significant differences were found between the ALD and ALN groups on the Kent-Rosanoff task.
- Paradigmatic responses were the most frequent category for both groups.
Conclusions:
- The Kent-Rosanoff task did not distinguish between children with autism with and without language disorder.
- Alternative or more sensitive measures may be needed to assess semantic depth in children with autism and LD.
Related Concept Videos
01:16Language
898
Language is a unique communication system that uses words and systematic rules to organize and transmit information. Unlike other forms of communication, which may involve postures, movements, odors, or vocalizations, language relies on symbols and grammar. This makes human communication distinct from that of other species, who also communicate but do not use language in the same way humans do.
Corballis and Suddendorf (2007) and Tomasello and Rakoczy (2003) highlight the role of language in...
Corballis and Suddendorf (2007) and Tomasello and Rakoczy (2003) highlight the role of language in...
898
01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
1.0K
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
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.
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.
1.0K
01:24Components of Language
796
Language, whether spoken, signed, or written, consists of specific components: lexicon and grammar. The lexicon is the vocabulary of a language, comprising its words. Grammar is the set of rules used to convey meaning through the lexicon. For example, English grammar adds “-ed” to most verbs to indicate past tense. Words are formed by combining phonemes, which are the basic sound units of a language. Different languages have different sets of phonemes (e.g., “ah” vs.
796
01:22Language Development
877
Children master language quickly and with relative ease, supported by both biological predisposition and reinforcement. B. F. Skinner (1957) proposed that language is learned through reinforcement, while Noam Chomsky (1965) argued that language acquisition mechanisms are biologically determined.
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...
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...
877
01:27Language and Cognition
741
Language serves as a bridge between ideas and communication, influencing how individuals perceive and interact with the world. Psychologists have long debated whether language shapes thought or vice versa. This discussion gained grip with Edward Sapir and Benjamin Lee Whorf in the 1940s, who proposed that language determines thought, a concept known as linguistic determinism. They suggested that the vocabulary and structure of a language influence how its speakers think and perceive reality.
741
01:21Association Areas of the Cortex
9.1K
Association areas are regions of the cerebral cortex that do not have a specific sensory or motor function. Instead, they integrate and interpret information from various sources to enable higher cognitive processes such as memory, learning, and decision-making. Some key association areas include the following:
Prefrontal Association Area: This area is located in the frontal lobe and is involved in planning, decision-making, and moderating social behavior. It connects with primary motor areas,...
Prefrontal Association Area: This area is located in the frontal lobe and is involved in planning, decision-making, and moderating social behavior. It connects with primary motor areas,...
9.1K