'Paleontological Institute at The University of Kansas'
Abstract
This retrospective study investigated potential predictors of the acquisition of verbal communication skills in young children with fragile x syndrome (FXS). In addition, descriptive information concerning this population's early communication development was gathered. The present study was part of a larger FXS research project conducted by researchers from the University of Kansas and the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. Potential predictors examined included different types of gestures, different communicative functions, characteristics of autism, and overall rates of communication. Predictor data were derived from standardized test scores and video sample analysis. Outcomes examined included standardized test scores, mean length of utterance, and number of different words used during a second observation period. No significant correlations were found between predictor and outcome variables for the whole sample; however, some noteworthy correlations between predictors and outcomes were found for females and participants with high autism symptomatology. Valuable descriptive information was also obtained
