Echolalia vs. Normal Repetition: How to Tell the Difference

Word repetition is a common behavior during the first few years of language development. As a parent or caregiver, it can be worrisome to determine if your child’s speech repetition is typical for their age or a sign of an underlying condition.

What is Echolalia

Echolalia is the repetition or echoing of phrases or words that have been spoken by someone else. 

Echolalia can be classified as immediate or delayed. Immediate echolalia involves the individual repeating the word or phrase immediately after hearing someone else say it. For example, if they are asked a question, they may simply repeat it back instead of answering. Echolalia is classified as delayed when the repetition of words or phrases occurs after some time has passed. This type is more difficult to understand since the words or phrases are typically said at random and out of context. 

Sometimes, echolalia is confused with palilalia. Although they are similar, the major difference is that an individual with palilalia will repeat their own words, phrases, or parts of phrases, while an individual with echolalia will repeat words or phrases that someone else has said. 

What causes Echolalia

Repeating words and phrases can be an expected part of language development in children. However, it can also be a symptom of certain conditions, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Tourette Syndrome, and various neurological conditions. Sometimes, echolalia is also triggered by anxiety and stress. 

It is important to note that echolalia may present itself differently in individuals, and the underlying cause can also vary. Additionally, not all instances of word or sentence repetition are echolalia. In some cases, it may be temporary or age-appropriate as a child develops their speech and language skills. 

Echolalia vs. Normal Repetition

Children often repeat words and phrases said by others as they learn how to speak. This typically starts at around 18 months old and continues up until the age of 3 or 4. After that time, they are more than likely to speak using their own thoughts and ideas. If the repetition continues well past the age of 3 or 4, it may indicate a speech delay or developmental concern. 

What's the difference between echolalia and just repeating words?

The main difference between echolalia and a child just repeating words lies in the purpose and the context. Echolalia is typically an automatic repetition of what is said by someone else. It lacks purpose or intent to communicate or engage. Normal repetition would be when a child repeats a word that they just learned to get attention, express excitement, make a request, or try to communicate. 

Example:

A child hears someone say, “Do you want to play?”. If they repeat “Do you want to play?” the same way that it was asked, that is an example of echolalia, whereas if they say “play!”, that is more than likely just normal word repetition. 

Strategies to reduce echolalia

Strategies to reduce echolalia depend on the underlying cause and severity. In some cases, instead of trying to eliminate echolalia completely, the goal is to help the individuals express themselves more meaningfully. Some of the strategies that may be used are:

• Rephrase and remodel the correct response when a mistake is made in speech.
• Use visual aids like picture cards or communication boards to help move past repetition.
• Encourage meaningful communication by guiding them to use correct words without repetition.
• When asking a question, offer a choice in the answer “Do you want apple juice or orange juice?”.
• Be patient and supportive.

Can speech therapy help with echolalia

Echolalia can be a normal phase in language development; however, if a child is still showing signs of echolalia by age 3 or 4, you should have them evaluated by a speech pathologist. Speech therapy can be a very effective way to address echolalia, and starting early yields the greatest improvement. 

Speech therapy will help by addressing the underlying cause of echolalia and will better equip the individual with the tools and strategies to reduce and sometimes even overcome the effects. The goal of speech therapy will be to gain confidence in speech while improving their language and communication skills.

Virtual speech therapy for echolalia 

Virtual speech therapy with Great Speech starts with a free introductory call. During this call, you will share your concerns and receive a thorough evaluation to determine your specific needs and goals for speech therapy. You will be matched with one of our highly qualified speech therapists, who will help develop your individualized treatment plan. While each therapy plan is unique, it typically consists of 12 weeks of modules, including two 30-minute sessions per week. Your speech therapist will be there to help you along the way and will schedule regular check-ins. The best part is that you can do all of this from the comfort of your own home!

Schedule your free introductory call today!