Related Experiment Videos
Language acquisition after mutism: a longitudinal case study of autism
J Windsor1, S S Doyle, G M Siegel
1Department of Communication Disorders, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis 55455-0209.
Journal of Speech and Hearing Research
|February 1, 1994
Summary
This study shows individuals with autism and limited speech can develop expressive language. It highlights that spoken and written communication can emerge even after prolonged mutism.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Linguistics
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Background:
- Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often exhibit restricted speech and language skills.
- A common assumption is that severe early language impairment predicts a poor long-term prognosis for expressive oral language development.
Observation:
- This longitudinal case study tracked a woman with autism from age 10 (mute) to age 26.
- Her participation in an intervention program was documented, alongside assessments of her skills before, after, and during follow-ups.
Findings:
- Speech and language development can progress beyond initial mutism, even with limited verbal imitation and phoneme production.
- While some skills may plateau or decline, significant gains in both spoken and written language were observed.
- Both oral and written modalities proved to be effective forms of communication.
Implications:
- Challenges the notion of a fixed, poor prognosis for expressive language in individuals with autism and severe speech limitations.
- Suggests that targeted interventions can foster significant language development, including spoken language, in this population.
- Underscores the potential for diverse communication pathways, including written language, to emerge and be successful.