Research Article

The ways of communication for children with autism spectrum disorder

Galiya A. Abayeva 1 * , Anna I. Akhmetzyanova 2 , Laura A. Butabayeva 3 , Saltanat K. Abildina 4 , Akerke N. Umirbekova 1
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1 Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University, Almaty, KAZAKHSTAN2 Kazan (Volga region) Federal University, Kazan, RUSSIA3 National Academy of Education named after I. Altynsarin, Astana, KAZAKHSTAN4 Karaganda Buketov University, Karaganda, KAZAKHSTAN* Corresponding Author
Online Journal of Communication and Media Technologies, 14(4), October 2024, e202462, https://doi.org/10.30935/ojcmt/15611
Published: 17 November 2024
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ABSTRACT

Deficits in social cognition underlie many of the profound challenges individuals with autism spectrum disorder face interacting with and understanding others. This study aimed to evaluate abilities predicting behavioral, verbal, and emotional responses during simulated social scenarios in 42 autistic children. Additionally, communication patterns were analyzed across solitary, peer, and group settings. A multifaceted assessment battery including the “prognostic stories” technique, expert observational ratings, cultural congruence metrics, and activity mapping provided insights into participants’ capacity forecasting actions, statements, and feelings in interpersonal situations. Results revealed marked variability across skill domains, with greatest impairments anticipating emotions. Communication quality and self-regulation strongly correlated with predictive accuracy. Cluster analysis indicated four distinct functional profiles (“proactive planners”, “regulatory navigators”, “quiet observers”, and “balanced responders”) highlighting heterogeneous strengths warranting support. Despite challenges inferring psychological states, personalized interventions targeting highly correlated skill deficits offer optimal social adaptation. Findings reiterate calls for balanced approaches recognizing autistic diversity while compassionately addressing barriers to inclusion. With acceptance and opportunity, individuals across the spectrum have much to contribute. Limitations include sample size and gender imbalance. Follow-up longitudinal tracking is warranted.
Keywords: autism spectrum disorder, social cognition, communication skills, prognostic methodology, executive functions

CITATION (APA)

Abayeva, G. A., Akhmetzyanova, A. I., Butabayeva, L. A., Abildina, S. K., & Umirbekova, A. N. (2024). The ways of communication for children with autism spectrum disorder. Online Journal of Communication and Media Technologies, 14(4), e202462. https://doi.org/10.30935/ojcmt/15611

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