Clinical Practice SWES Practice Exam

Clients with Autism Spectrum Disorder typically require verbal communication that is?

1. Very specific and clear about implications

2. Rich in abstract reasoning

3. Accompanied by consistent non-verbal messages

4. Intellectually simple

The correct answer is: Very specific and clear about implications

Clients with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often benefit from verbal communication that is very specific and clear about implications. This is because individuals with ASD may have challenges understanding vague phrases, idioms, or abstract concepts. Clear communication helps mitigate misunderstandings and ensures that the intentions and expectations are easily grasped. Moreover, specificity provides the structure that many individuals with ASD find comforting and easier to process. It allows them to follow directions or understand conversations without ambiguity. Communication that lacks clarity can lead to confusion, frustration, and anxiety, which are common among individuals on the spectrum. While accompanying verbal communication with consistent non-verbal messages can certainly enhance understanding, it is the clarity and specificity of the words used that are most crucial. Abstract reasoning can be particularly challenging for individuals with ASD, making rich abstract language less effective. Also, simplifying language to be intellectually simple may not always capture the necessary details required for effective communication, which is why specificity is prioritized.