Lifespan Language Lab

Welcome to the Lifespan Language Lab!

We are interested in the way language changes across the human lifespan. Our research investigates how genetic, cognitive, and environmental factors impact language. Through our work, we hope to expand current knowledge of the impact of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative conditions on language.

Current Research

Language, Executive Function, and Quality of Life 

This study aims to determine the extent to which language may predict outcomes associated with fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) and the FMR1 premutation. We are recruiting adults who do and do not have the FMR1 premutation between the ages of 30 and 65 years. Click here if you are interested in participating in our work. 

Improving Law Enforcement Communication with Autistic Individuals 

Adverse interactions with police and law enforcement officers are common for individuals with autism and related conditions. However, there is very little training for officers regarding how to best support these interactions. The goal of this work is to understand the experiences of law enforcement related to autism and autism-related training programs, and build training programs for Arizona law enforcement. 

From the Lab

The lab celebrates Halloween!

Lab director Dr. Nell Maltman at the American Speech-Language-Hearing Convention in Boston, MA with collaborator Kim Mueller (UW-Madison)