Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder that manifests itself in a unique way in each individual. Therefore, the challenges and consequent interventions are different for everyone. A common symptom of autism is difficulty with speech and communication, and one way of developing communication skills is to use sign language. Many autistic individuals are nonverbal or find it difficult to associate words with things or needs. This is where sign language can play an important role in helping nonverbal autistic individuals effectively communicate with others. Even for those who have some speech, or are showing signs that they will develop speech, sign language can be an effective way to communicate while also encouraging vocal speech.
What is Sign Language?
Sign Language is a detailed system of gestures, body movements, and facial expressions that are used to identify objects, and communicate emotions and needs. There is a specific action or expression for every word or feeling, making sign language a comprehensive linguistic system. It is independent of all spoken language and is complete with its grammar and syntax, thus being capable of addressing all types of communication needs.
How is Sign Language Used with Those Who Have Autism?
Sign language was initially created to assist deaf or hard-of-hearing communities but it has proven to be immensely helpful for visual learners, non-verbal autistic individuals, or people who struggle with dialog delivery and verbal expression.
Individuals who struggle with connecting words with objects find it frustrating to communicate, which can result in tantrums, lashing out, and aggressive or self-destructive behaviors in extreme cases. It is frustrating for parents and caregivers also to face these reactions without understanding why they happen.
Teaching sign language, ideally as an early intervention, can help individuals communicate in a more understandable manner. With practice, they can get better at using sign language to express full sentences or even enhance their speaking skills.
Types of Sign Language Used with Autism
There are over 300 types of sign languages. Some are comprehensive systems with their unique grammar and lexicon, others are a mixture of signs and spoken words. Sign languages are also heavily influenced by the region in which they are used.
The sign language option selected for enhancing communication skills depends on several factors such as their cognitive development and their speech requirements. Some commonly used sign languages in autism are:
Americal Sign Language or ASL: this is a unique language that is different from the rules and nuances of the English language. It is complete with a list of signs for every word in a specific category such as “animals”, “plants”, or “food”. It is the most commonly used language for people with auditory impairment but is also helpful for others who do not speak or have difficulty communicating.
Keyword Sign: this uses gestures or signs for only the keywords or the main words in a sentence. This type of signing was previously known as Makaton and is also referred to as Signalong or sign-supported speech. The main concept here is to convey the focal idea of the need or emotion, rather than illustrating each word in the sentence. So the keyword is simultaneously acted out and spoken in front of the person. Keyword sign language is particularly helpful for individuals who struggle with completing sentences or get overwhelmed with grammar rules or tenses. It may be a useful communication strategy for those who will ultimately communicate by speech or other means.
The following table shows some common keywords and their respective gestures:
Benefits of Sign Language When Used with Individuals with Autism
Sign language comes with plenty of advantages as it is a convenient communication tool for individuals who commonly struggle with speech and communication. Here are some of the benefits of sign language:
- Enhanced communication skills: Sign language is a visual and physical mode of expression that is easier to grasp for individuals who typically struggle with auditory processing or verbal communication.
- Increased communication: As expression becomes easier, the person will be more likely to communicate their needs in a manner that is understood by their caregivers or the general public, and may not require any prompting.
- Reduced frustration: not being able to convey needs or express dislikes can be incredibly frustrating, thus individuals may resort to aggression or tantrums to express frustration. Sign language can help an individual express and resolve their needs before it gets to the meltdown stage.
- More Independence: communication skills promote independence in individuals as they learn to articulate needs and rely less on parents and caregivers.
- Better social interaction: with sign language and the ability to express themselves, people can have positive interactions with others and even develop friendships and relationships.
Conclusion
Communication is essential to everyday life, but people with autism may struggle with verbal communication, auditory processing, and articulating needs and desires. Sign language can be an effective and helpful tool as it can bridge the communication gap and help address wants and needs and even increase social interaction.
There are various types of sign languages individuals can learn - the ideal option depends on the region they belong to, and what their communication needs are. Sign language has a long list of benefits such as enhancing communication skills, and reducing frustration and reliance on others, while promoting confidence.
