"I want to talk like everyone": on the use of multiple means of communication.
This qualitative case study is a description of a young man with autism who communicated using speech, sign language, facilitated communication, body language, and his mother's conversational supports. Participant observation, interviews, and review of records were used to explore his current and past communication practices. These practices illustrate his preference for speaking and the complexity of choosing among communication means on an ongoing basis. Although the young man and his mother differed in their thinking about communication, they revealed a common goal: for Michael to participate in ordinary life activities as a member with a voice.
Schubert
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Special Education Department, Syracuse University, NY, USA. aschuber@mailbox.syr.edu
D000328:Adult; D001321:Autistic Disorder / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D003145:Communication Methods, Total; D006801:Humans; D007805:Language Development Disorders / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D008297:Male; D012925:Social Conformity; D014705:Verbal Behavior