Friendship between children using augmentative and alternative communication and peers: a systematic literature review

Background Although research on friendship among children without any reported disability is extensive, the investigation of the characteristics of friendship among children who are using augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) has received little attention. In this systematic literature review we investigated the current research on friendship between children who use AAC under 13 years of age.

Method Database searches were undertaken with English search terms. The review included 8 articles.

Results The results revealed that current research lacks systematic development of knowledge. Children using AAC have a different basis for establishing and developing friendship, due to restrictions in presence, participation, interaction, and communication with peers.

Conclusions Future research could pay closer attention to how children using AAC develop friendship, and how such relationships can be supported. This research could usefully incorporate the body of research on friendship among children without disability.