Multilingualism may improve EF, core symptoms in autism

A new study by U.S. researchers adds to evidence that multilingualism may benefit both neurotypical children and children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

Multiple studies indicate that being fluent in two or more languages confers cognitive benefits, particularly involving executive function (EF) skills such as planning, organizing, controlling emotions, shifting between tasks, and inhibiting inappropriate actions—a phenomenon known as “bilingual advantage.” In their study, Celia Romero and colleagues examined the effects of multilingualism on EF skills in neurotypical and autistic children, as well as on core symptoms in children with ASD.

The researchers asked parents of 112 children between seven and twelve years of age, approximately half of whom were neurotypical and half were autistic, to complete assessments of the children’s EF skills and core autism symptoms. Of the children, 56 were monolingual and 56 were multilingual. Controlling for IQ and socioeconomic status, the researchers found that multilingualism was directly associated with stronger inhibition, shifting, and perspective-taking skills in children both with and without ASD. In addition, they found indirect associations, mediated by EF skills, between multilingualism and perspective-taking, social communication, and repetitive behaviors in children with ASD.

The researchers conclude that their findings “suggest that encouraging multilingualism in the home could provide a ‘natural intervention’ strategy for bolstering some aspects of EF.”

Citations

“Multilingualism impacts children’s executive function and core autism symptoms,” Celia Romero, Zachary T. Goodman, Lauren Kupis, Bryce Dirks, Meaghan V. Parlade, Amy L. Beaumont, Sandra M. Cardona, Jason S. Nomi, Michael Alessandri, Lynn K. Perry, and Lucina Q. Uddin, Autism Research, December 2024 (free online). Address: Celia Romero, University of Miami, 5665 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Coral Gables, FL 33146, [email protected].