Abstract Summary/Description
The nature of conversational turns between young children and their parents can have cascading effects on later cognitive and emotional development (Kochanska, Forman, & Coy, 1999; Landry et al., 2000). Studying these interactions can reveal adaptive and maladaptive communicative skills to target in interventions. This paper broadly examined the literature on conversational turn development in typically developing children and its applications to children with developmental disabilities. Much of the existing research has used Language Environment Analysis (LENA) software for its convenient and accurate analysis of language transcripts. However, the literature could benefit from incorporating manual language sample transcription to capture nonverbal communicative behaviors (e.g., manual signs, picture cards, eye contact) in children with developmental disabilities, particularly those using augmented and alternative communication. Additionally, researchers would benefit from using advanced statistical techniques, such as Multilevel Modeling (MLM) and generalized estimated equations (GEE) analysis, as they can accurately specify dyadic interactions and can easily be modified to assess longitudinal data. Finally, informed consent practices should incorporate supported decision-making strategies and the Goodness-of-Fit approach to account for the unique abilities, lifestyle, family, and care supports of Individuals with developmental disabilities as they age. Adapting methods in statistical analysis, data collection, and informed consent is crucial to ensure that research reflects the lived experiences of these families, rather than imposing standards from typically developing populations.
