The Effect of Multilingualism on Executive Skills in Children with Autism
The findings of recent studies showed that language learning can have significant positive effects on improving the quality of life of children with autism.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that has far-reaching effects on children’s development and social interactions. This disorder is usually characterized by problems with social communication, non-verbal interactions, and repetitive behavior patterns. Although the exact cause of autism is not yet fully understood, research has shown that a combination of genetic and environmental factors can play a role.
Autism: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a set of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by difficulties with social interactions, verbal and non-verbal communication, and limited and repetitive behaviors. The symptoms of this disorder can vary from one child to another, but in most cases, difficulties with social interactions and communication is one of its prominent features.
Many children with autism may not be able to communicate effectively, understand other people’s feelings, or give appropriate social responses. These problems can interfere with their daily lives and pose many challenges, especially in social or educational environments. The exact cause of autism is still being investigated, but scientists believe that genetic and environmental factors simultaneously play a role in the development of the disorder. In particular, genetic changes that affect brain development can contribute to the disorder. Also, some research has shown that stressful environments or factors such as air pollution can contribute to an increased risk of autism.
Available treatments for autism usually include behavioural interventions and speech and language therapies. Behavioral therapies such as Applied Behavior Analytical Therapy (ABA) can help children improve their social behaviors and develop their communication abilities. Also, some medications are used to help alleviate specific symptoms of autism, such as attention problems, anxiety, or repetitive behaviors.
The Effect of Multilingualism on Executive Skills and Autism Symptoms
Multilingualism refers to the ability to learn and use two or more languages at the same time. In recent years, several studies have shown that multilingualism can have many cognitive benefits. In particular, in the area of executive skills, which include the ability to manage attention, self-control, and switch between tasks, bilingual or multilingual children often perform better.
The Positive Effect of Multilingualism on Language and Social Skills
Because they have to manage two languages at the same time, bilingual children usually have more advanced cognitive and language skills. This is especially important in children with autism, as language problems are a prominent feature of the disorder. In fact, research on children with autism and being bilingual suggests that these children may perform better on language and social skills than their monolingual counterparts. A study previously published by researchers in this field investigated the effect of bilingualism on executive and language skills in children with autism. The study found that bilingual children improved over monolingual children in a variety of areas, including attention accuracy, ability to manage emotions, and social behaviors. Also, these children are usually able to function better in more complex social situations.
Conclusion
New studies show that multilingualism can have significant positive effects on executive skills and the main symptoms of autism spectrum disorder. These findings underscore that parents and professionals need to exploit the numerous cognitive and social benefits of learning different languages for children with autism while reducing misconceptions about its negative impacts. Overall, this research conclusively shows that multilingualism can serve as an effective cognitive and social tool for improving the quality of life of children with autism.
Source: Iranian Stem Cell Information Database