Characteristics of communication profiles of children with autistic spectrum disorder and their parents

Abstract

This paper represents a review of current studies of communication and affective characteristics in dyads of children with autistic spectrum disorder and their parents. The review is aimed at establishing if specific features of communication exist in this population when there is an interaction with a close partner. In an attempt to describe the basic characteristics of these dyads, advantage is given to the deficit in nonverbal communication shown by children with autistic spectrum disorder, especially the joint attention deficit. Also, the dyads are described from the perspective of coordination of affect. Affective reactions of the child are described within the dyads, including empathy. Numerous study results focusing on emotional reactions of the mother are reviewed. After describing the characteristics, the question is posed concerning the strategies used in the dyads in difficult communication phases or following communication break offs. In an attempt to describe the characteristics of the other partner in communication - the parent, stress and fatigue are especially treated. These factors have a strong influence on everyday interactions of the parent and child. We have accented the importance of careful examination of these factors when making decisions on therapeutic interventions, because they need to be based on parents' strengths.