Gestalt Language Processing
Language acquisition through 'chunks' or whole phrases rather than single words. Validates echolalia as functional communication stage.
AutismSocial CommunicationCognitive Processing
Layer 2: Validated
Clinical Recognition
Developed by speech pathologist Marge Blanc. Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) framework is standard in neuro-affirming speech therapy.
Community Validation
High recognition in autistic communities and among parents. Reframes 'scripting' from meaningless behaviour to meaningful communication.
Published
17 December 2025 by Team Heumans
Gestalt Language Processing describes how many autistic people learn language in "chunks"—whole phrases, sentences, or scripts—rather than building up from individual words. A child might say "Let's get out of here!" (from a movie) to mean "I'm overwhelmed" before they can say "I" or "scared."
It's not parroting. It's using pre-fabricated language units as building blocks, which are later broken down ("mitigated") into flexible, recombinant phrases. Scripting isn't a behaviour to extinguish—it's Stage 1 of a six-stage language development process.