A CASE STUDY ON THE COMMUNICATION FUNCTIONS OF NON-CONVENTIONAL SPEECH IN AUTISTIC CHILDREN 

Abstract

In Hsinchu City, Taiwan, there’s been an interesting note that some children on the autism spectrum end up expressing themselves in surprisingly unconventional ways—a trend noticed through observations up until April 2019. Researchers spent significant time in both homes and schools; they gathered audio recordings and had relaxed chats with caregivers, and in doing so discovered that these kids sometimes lean on repeating familiar phrases, stringing together tune-like sequences, making grunts, or even inventing words on the spot. Their mode of communication isn’t random at all—generally speaking, it acts as a practical tool for conveying feelings and needs when ordinary language just doesn’t cut it. It almost seems they naturally pick up on the beat of social cues while reacting to their immediate surroundings, though admittedly such patterns can fade when the setting changes. Pre and post-test results reveal a kind of mixed adaptability, pointing to both promising possibilities and clear limits. In Taiwan, where studies like this aren’t very common, the research hints that exploring these unique speech patterns might pave the way for interventions based around creative play or art—offering a fresh basis for connection even if the challenge of keeping long-term progress remains.