Communication features in children with autism spectrum disorder

Abstract. Difficulties in communication are one of the main deficits in a child with autism spectrum disorder. The research purpose is to study the communicative sphere of children with autism spectrum disorder. In this study, we used: a questionnaire for parents “Socialization”, a questionnaire “Assessment of communication skills in children with autism spectrum disorders”, developed on the basis of the methodology “Assessment of social and communication skills for children with autism” (authors: K.A. Quill, K.N. Bracken, M.E. Fair, J.A. Fiore), as well as a “Observation map of communicative abilities manifestations in preschoolers” (A.M. Shchetinina, M.A. Nikiforova). The study sample consisted of 11 children with autism spectrum disorder (4–7 years old). The results of the study showed that the level of development of communicative abilities in children of this group is quite low, all children have difficulties in forming communicative behavior: they did not establish verbal contact with the interlocutor, did not show empathy and initiative in organizing games, found it difficult to attract the attention of adults when expressing requests in an adequate way. Echolalia was also observed in most children. The data obtained in the study contribute to the search for effective ways to solve the problem of forming a communicative sphere in children with autism spectrum disorder, as well as the creation of correctional programs using neuropsychological methods and means of alternative and additional communication in the form of applications on modern information computer devices.