PSYCHOLOGY

Communication Alternatives in Autism: Perspectives on Typing and Spelling Approaches for the Nonspeaking

McFarland. Nov. 2019. 143p. ed. by ed. by Edlyn Vallejo Peña. bibliog. index. ISBN 9781476678917. pap. $29.95. PSYCH
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Everyone’s voice deserves to be heard—regardless of communication methodology. Yet, often the communicant needs assistance. Two such forms of assisted communication are Facilitated Communication (FC), which involves physical support of the hand, wrist, arm, or shoulder to help individuals with pointing to letters or symbols, and Rapid Prompting Method (RPM), in which a facilitator points to letters or symbols rapidly while awaiting a yes response from the individual. There is considerable controversy surrounding both of these methods—how much of the communication is from the individual vs. the facilitator? In this collection of essays, ten adults with autism share their feelings on the ability to communicate.
VERDICT While limited in its scope--it only discusses these two similar forms of communication methodology--it is nonetheless incredibly valuable in that it gives those on the spectrum the opportunity to self-advocate for their own communication method. Highly recommended for parents, caregivers, educators, physicians, and specialists working with children of all ages.
Reviewed by Virginia Johnson, John Curtis P.L., Hanover, MA , Oct 01, 2019
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