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Semin Speech Lang 2022; 43(04): 299-315
DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1750349
Review Article

Development of a Manualized Intervention to Support Episodic Memory in Autistic Children: Elaborative Reminiscing Is Key

Ashley Brien
1   Department of Speech Language Pathology, California State University San Marcos, San Marcos, California
,
Tiffany Hutchins
2   Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont
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Abstract

Episodic memory (EM) is memory for past personal experiences. EM and social development are inextricably linked, and both are impacted in autistic persons. Parents of autistic children can be taught to engage in a unique conversational style (i.e., elaborative reminiscing) to support a child's memory and social development. This article discusses the importance of EM in autism and describes a new manualized caregiver training to support EM in autistic children. An uncontrolled pre-post study design was employed to test proof of concept. Results affirmed the potential of this intervention for increasing caregivers' elaborateness and improving children's EM in a family-centered, naturalistic way. Results suggest that further treatment development and examination of effectiveness are needed. We argue that these kinds of intervention are important: not only is EM theoretically potent for social cognitive development, it is essential for a sense of self-determination, social connection, and psychological well-being.

Keywords

elaborative reminiscing - episodic memory - parent training - autism - autobiographical memory


Publication History

Article published online:
27 July 2022

© 2022. Thieme. All rights reserved.

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