What symptom is characterized by a student repeating phrases and noises in the classroom?

• A. Echolalia
• B. Palilalia
• C. Apraxia
• D. Mutism

Answer: (A)

Echolalia is defined as the involuntary repetition of phrases or noises that have been heard. This behavior often occurs in children with autism spectrum disorders and can be a part of their speech and communication patterns. Students exhibiting echolalia may echo sentences or sounds they have recently heard, sometimes without apparent understanding of the context. This symptom can serve various purposes, such as communication or processing language, and can manifest in different forms, such as immediate repetition right after hearing a statement or delayed repetition after some time.

The other conditions listed do not represent the same behavior. Palilalia involves repeating one's own speech, typically with decreasing volume, and is often linked to neurological conditions. Apraxia refers to difficulties with motor planning to carry out movements needed for speech, affecting the ability to articulate words rather than repeating them. Mutism indicates an inability or unwillingness to speak entirely, which contrasts with the characteristic of repeating phrases or sounds. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why echolalia specifically aligns with the described behavior of a student in a classroom setting.