Internationale Zeitschrift für Neurorehabilitation

Computer Assisted Feedback Strategies for Social Language Training in Autism: A Neurobehavioral Model

Abstract

Lawrence A Welkowitz, Karen Jennings and Alexandra Sholtes

Psychologists and other clinical professionals struggle with the problem of understanding and modifying noncongruent conversational styles of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). More recent studies have attempted to identify relevant acoustical parameters of speech, including volume, pitch, rhythm and lengths of utterances, in an attempt to better explain errors in social communication and interaction. While a complex set of biological, behavioral and developmental factors lead to disruptions in social and communication abilities there is both theoretical and empirical support for focused intervention. In our lab we have utilized a software platform called speechmatch that provides children and adults with ASD real time feedback about their success in matching critical acoustic parameters that contribute to effective social interaction. A neuro-behavioral rehabilitation model focuses on early chain intervention, operant/reward-based shaping of sound matching, and neuroplasticity.