Echolalia is a distinct pattern of vocal behavior characterized by socially and contextually inappropriate repetition of words or phrases previously spoken by another source. This entry describes echolalia in terms of its various forms (immediate and delayed), related behaviors (palilalia), prevalence, and intervention options. Two general perspectives on echolalia are noted, which are (a) echolalia’s characterization as a problem behavior that impedes language development and complicates social interactions versus, and (b) as a potential asset for some developmental and social functions. Although echolalia is prevalent among individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, there is a paucity of research involving standardized assessment, functional analysis, or treatment. The literature about echolalia is summarized and discussed to appraise the corpus of intervention research. Currently, behavioral interventions (e.g., cues-pause-point and differential reinforcement) appear to be the most promising approaches to treatment. However, due to mixed results, experimental design issues, and limited data on generalization and maintenance no current approach can be classified as an evidence-based practice. Both systematic reviews acknowledge echolalia’s complexity and underscore the necessity for future research toward improved assessment, better understanding of functional aspects, and improved interventions.

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Echolalia: Definition, Prevalence, Treatment, and Role in Language Development

  • Neryth Jimenez,
  • Raegan Torges,
  • Khiarra Tippins,
  • Russell Lang

摘要

Echolalia is a distinct pattern of vocal behavior characterized by socially and contextually inappropriate repetition of words or phrases previously spoken by another source. This entry describes echolalia in terms of its various forms (immediate and delayed), related behaviors (palilalia), prevalence, and intervention options. Two general perspectives on echolalia are noted, which are (a) echolalia’s characterization as a problem behavior that impedes language development and complicates social interactions versus, and (b) as a potential asset for some developmental and social functions. Although echolalia is prevalent among individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, there is a paucity of research involving standardized assessment, functional analysis, or treatment. The literature about echolalia is summarized and discussed to appraise the corpus of intervention research. Currently, behavioral interventions (e.g., cues-pause-point and differential reinforcement) appear to be the most promising approaches to treatment. However, due to mixed results, experimental design issues, and limited data on generalization and maintenance no current approach can be classified as an evidence-based practice. Both systematic reviews acknowledge echolalia’s complexity and underscore the necessity for future research toward improved assessment, better understanding of functional aspects, and improved interventions.