Abstract

The primary goal of this study was to investigate how speech-language pathologists diagnose childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) in autistic children requiring different levels of support and the interventions they use in this population. This research explores professional perceptions on the frequency of co-morbid CAS and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), knowledge of diagnosis and treatment of this comorbidity, and effectiveness of the treatments used for this comorbidity.

This study analyzes data from 48 respondents with experience providing speech-language pathology services to autistic children aged 3 to 8 years old in the last five years. SLPs reported they were more knowledgeable on treating co-morbid CAS and ASD than they were diagnosing the comorbidity. In addition, SLPs indicated that they were more likely to facilitate spoken language in children with levels 1 and 2 ASD and were more likely to introduce a form of augmentative or alternative communication in children with level 3 ASD or who are nonspeaking. The disparity between knowledge of diagnosis and knowledge of providing treatment suggests continuing education may be beneficial to help practicing SLPs feel more equipped to diagnose co-morbid CAS and ASD.

Advisor

Furey, Joan

Department

Communication Sciences and Disorders

Disciplines

Development Studies | Disability and Equity in Education | Early Childhood Education | Mental Disorders | Speech and Hearing Science | Speech Pathology and Audiology

Keywords

speech-language pathologist (SLP), childhood apraxia of speech (CAS), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), speech-sound disorder, pediatric

Publication Date

2026

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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