Perception of Multidisciplinary Team About Impact of Speech and Language Therapy in Development of Nonverbal Communication in Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by impairments in communication and social interaction, with nonverbal communication deficits often emerging early and persisting throughout life. Speech and language therapy (SLT) is central to the management of ASD, particularly in fostering nonverbal communication as a precursor or complement to verbal development. However, the perception of SLT’s role in this domain by non-SLP members of the multidisciplinary team (MDT) remains underexplored, despite its relevance to collaborative care models. Objective: To assess the perceptions of MDT professionals regarding the impact of SLT on the development of nonverbal communication in children with ASD. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted over six months across eight clinical and educational centers in Lahore, Pakistan. Using simple random sampling, 116 eligible MDT professionals—including occupational therapists, behavioral therapists, clinical psychologists, and special educators completed a semi-structured questionnaire adapted from the Functional Communication Profile. Data were analyzed using SPSS v20. Descriptive statistics and inferential analyses (Chi-square, ANOVA, Pearson correlation) were applied. Results: A majority (66.4%) consistently endorsed the importance of SLT in ASD management. A strong positive correlation (r=0.71) was observed between perceived SLT impact and MDT collaboration. Significant associations were found between higher understanding of nonverbal communication and referral frequency to SLTs (p=0.042). Use of AAC and PECS was also widely supported. Conclusion: MDT professionals recognize SLT as integral to nonverbal communication development in ASD. Greater interprofessional awareness is associated with improved collaboration and referral behavior, underscoring the need for continued integration of SLT within multidisciplinary care.