Analyzing mothers' speech to young autistic children: A methodological study

The development of a technique for analyzing mothers' speech to young children is described. The need for such a measure arose from two linked studies of autistic children, one comparing them with developmental dysphasic children and the other evaluating the results of a home-based approach to treatment. A 17-category system was developed which could encompass almost all the types of speech shown by mothers of young autistic and normal children and which differentiated between the speech used by different mothers in a way that was meaningfully related to the child's level of language development. The categories proved to be easily applicable and to show good inter-observer reliability. Tape-recordings made during home observations were found to be the best source of speech samples. The problems of time sampling, length and nature of speech sample, and observer effects are discussed.We are most grateful to our colleagues Dr. Lionel Hersov and Mr. William Yule for many helpful suggestions in developing the measures and for their comments on an earlier draft of the paper. The study is supported by a grant from the (British) Department of Health and Social Security.     

The Slosson intelligence test as a quick estimate of mental ability

The study investigated the reliability and validity of the SIT when administered and scored by 33 special education teachers who had no prior psychological testing experience. Subjects were 155 pupils between four and 16 years old who attended 40 Philadelphia schools. Results relative to interscorer differences, internal consistency, stability over time, and concurrent validity upheld the use of this measure as a quick screening device and corroborated Slosson's contention that the test can be administered successfully by teachers.