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Communication in 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome: a Brief Overview of the Profile, Intervention Approaches, and Future Considerations

  • Communication Disorders (J Sigafoos, Section Editor)
  • Published:
Current Developmental Disorders Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Brief Review

22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11.2DS) is a micro-deletion disorder with a heterogenous complex presentation including significant communication difficulties. This brief review discusses the communication profile and potential approaches to enhancing communication skills for these learners.

Recent Findings

The communication profile of 22q11.2DS has been described in several studies identifying early assessment, monitoring, and on-going language interventions as best practice for those with 22q11.2DS. However, few studies have reported on empirical findings of specific interventions to enhance the communicative skills of learners with 22q11.2DS.

Summary

The distinct communication profile of individuals with 22q11.2DS offers researchers and practitioners an opportunity to develop tailored interventions to support effective communication skills for learners with 22q11.2DS. This review recommends that, in addition to existing interventions, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) should be evaluated to (a) support early expressive communication for children and (b) support socio-communication strategies for older learners with 22q11.2DS.

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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Education, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan campus, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia

    Laura Roche

  2. School of Psychology, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia

    Linda Campbell

  3. Brisbane Children’s Hospital, Queensland Health, Brisbane, Australia

    Helen Heussler

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  1. Laura Roche
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Correspondence to Laura Roche.

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Conflict of Interest

Helen Heussler runs a number of sponsored clinical trials that do not relate to this work. She receives no personal funding for the projects but her institution is sponsored to run these trials. Companies include Zynerba Pahrmaceuticals, GW Pharmaceuticals, Anavex, Axial Biotheraputics, and OVID therapeutics. Laura Roche and Linda Campbell declare that they have no conflicts of interest.

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Roche, L., Campbell, L. & Heussler, H. Communication in 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome: a Brief Overview of the Profile, Intervention Approaches, and Future Considerations. Curr Dev Disord Rep 7, 124–129 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40474-020-00208-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40474-020-00208-8

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