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. 2015 Jun;45(6):1699-711.
doi: 10.1007/s10803-014-2328-y.

Reading and phonological skills in boys with fragile X syndrome

Jessica Klusek  1 , Anna W Hunt, Penny L Mirrett, Deborah D Hatton, Stephen R Hooper, Jane E Roberts, Donald B Bailey
Affiliations

Reading and phonological skills in boys with fragile X syndrome

Jessica Klusek et al. J Autism Dev Disord. 2015 Jun.

Abstract

Although reading skills are critical for the success of individuals with intellectual disabilities, literacy has received little attention in fragile X syndrome (FXS). This study examined the literacy profile of FXS. Boys with FXS (n = 51; mean age 10.2 years) and mental age-matched boys with typical development (n = 35) participated in standardized assessments of reading and phonological skills. Phonological skills were impaired in FXS, while reading was on-par with that of controls. Phonological awareness predicted reading ability and ASD severity predicted poorer phonological abilities in FXS. Boys with FXS are capable of attaining reading skills that are commensurate with developmental level and phonological awareness skills may play a critical role in reading achievement in FXS.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Group comparisons on readings subtests of the WJ-R. Covariate-adjusted means, controlling for nonverbal mental age and maternal education level, are presented.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Group comparisons on phonological subtests of the WJ-III. Covariate-adjusted means, controlling for nonverbal mental age and maternal education level, are presented.
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