What Communication Differences come with Autism?

One of the requirements for diagnosis of autism is difficulties in communication, largely centered on social or verbal differences. As with every other facet of autism, there is no single set of communication differences seen with ASD. Communication differences may appear in the form of ability, capacity, manner, method, literacy, and social engagement. Some common differences include:

• Delayed or accelerated language acquisition

• Verbal and non-verbal communication skills (the ability to use vocal expression to communicate; using facial expression or gestures to communicate information)

• Social engagement (interest shown or participation in social activities)

• Echolalia (repeating back things said by others or repeating the same phrase repeatedly regardless of context)

• Literal interpretations (does not use or catch subtext)

• Honesty (less likely to be dishonest than the general population)

• Directness (a tendency to give thorough answers; less likely to use ‘couched’ language)