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The Recognition and Use of Verbal Humour by Children with Language Impairment

David A. O'Mara and Annalu Waller, Applied Computing, University of Dundee
John Todman, Psychology, University of Dundee


Abstract


People who have a significant problem in making themselves understood using their
natural voice have the opportunity to use a variety of augmentative and
alternative communication methods, which includes computer based voice aids, to
take part in interactive communication. However, voice aids are often rejected or
underused, and many assisted communicators remain passive rather than active
conversation partners. Storytelling is a common and important part of
conversation. However, children with language impairment have been found to have
difficulties in developing storytelling skills. Children love to make-up and tell
jokes and riddles - these examples of verbal humour are stories in miniature,
offering an opportunity to practise language, conversation and social interaction
skills during childhood. Children with language impairment often miss this
experience, which includes receiving valuable feedback from communication
partners on the suitability of their language and conversation. This presentation
reports on an investigation into the recognition and use of verbal humour by
children with complex communication needs using the Keyword Manipulation Task
(KMT), a procedure specifically designed for humour research with children of all
abilities and especially those children with expressive language difficulties.
Results indicate that some young children with language impairment clearly
recognise verbal humour technique and enjoy using humour. The variability of
performance across age would suggest that humour recognition is likely to be a
reflection of the child’s current cognitive and metalinguistic abilities. The
general conclusion is that providing access to verbal humour play for children
with language impairment will narrow the gap of language experience opportunities
between children of all abilities.