Exploring the Relationship Between Gesture and Language in ASD (original) (raw)

Perspectives on Language Learning and Education, 2012

Abstract

In this paper, we will explore the relationship between gesture and language in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Gesture and speech have been shown to share the same neural substrates, and it has been proposed that speech evolved over time from a gestural repertoire. Simultaneously, research in gesture and language has shown that gesture plays a critical role in language development, and a gestural disturbance may be a predictor of future language development. Individuals with autism often present with imitation deficits, developmental dyspraxia, and deficits in motor coordination. Taken together, these deficits pose challenges to the speech-language pathologist providing therapy to these clients. If gesture is indeed critical to language development, and individuals with ASD demonstrate gestural deficits, new therapies are needed to bridge this gap. We will describe an innovative battery of tasks assessing gesture and discuss future gestural intervention.

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