Which factor is associated with better outcomes in Autism Spectrum Disorder?

The association of communication skills by age 5 or 6 with better outcomes in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) highlights the critical role of early language development in the overall progress of individuals with ASD. Research has shown that children who develop effective communication skills early in life are more likely to engage socially, which is essential for building relationships and participating in educational and community activities.

Effective communication serves as a foundation for social interaction and can positively influence cognitive development. As children with ASD learn to express themselves more clearly and to understand social cues better, they tend to experience improvements in social skills, academic performance, and overall quality of life. This emphasizes the importance of targeted interventions aimed at enhancing communication abilities as early as possible.

While other factors listed may have some relevance to ASD outcomes, communication skills by age 5 or 6 have been proven to have a direct and significant correlation with long-term improvement in various aspects of functioning for individuals with ASD.