Interpreting problematic behavior: Systematic compensatory adaptations as emergent phenomena in autism

Abstract

Based upon an emergent account of pragmatic ability and disability, this article provides theoretical and empirical support for a conceptually deeper understanding of some systematic behaviors that have served as diagnostic indices in communicatively impaired populations. Specifically, by employing conversation analysis, several examples of problematic behaviors in autism are analysed as a specific type of compensatory adaptation. Theoretical and clinical implications are discussed.

• Pragmatic disability
• emergence
• compensatory adaptation
• autism
• conversation analysis