Autism Spectrum Disorder: Assessment of Speech, Language, and Communication Disorders in

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong developmental condition with characteristics that include varying levels of difficulty with social interaction and communication. As the name of the condition suggests, those with ASD have a wide spectrum, or range, of characteristics. For example, some individuals with ASD do not develop speech, whereas others communicate fluently using speech. This entry examines the speech, language, and communication characteristics that may be seen in individuals with ASD and why assessment of these characteristics is important. It then discusses procedures for assessing speech, language, and communication in individuals with ASD.

Assessment of speech, language, and communication in individuals with ASD involves the examination of both the use and understanding of verbal communication, as well as other methods of communication (e.g., written ...