Conclusion
While every person is different, it is important to understand that
strengths and weaknesses are often inextricably and paradoxically
linked, and to leverage strengths to build developmental skills.
Compared with A-NoSOD, the A-SOD group’s visual-spatial and perceptual
reasoning strengths and processing speed, and enhanced pitch perception
alongside auditory filtering, may contribute to speech delay. Yet these
strengths may also empower development of control over their own vocal
pitch and arm and eye movements, helping A-SOD develop language.
Auditory strengths may contribute to speech delay through enhanced
perception of the acoustics of speech that distract from the meaning of
speech. Nevertheless, auditory strengths also help A-SOD catch up to
A-NoSOD through improved filtering. Understanding A-SOD’s strengths may
help to recognize how they make developmental gains in speech and
language. Autistic people with speech delays or impairments are often
underestimated. Applying lessons from evidence on their sensory and
motor strengths can support recognition of their intelligence and
communication.