Glossary of scientific terms

Early development: Development during the first three years of life.

Early intervention: The specialized way of interacting with infants to minimize the effects of conditions that can delay early development.

Echolalia: a parrot-like repetition of phrases or words just heard (immediate echolalia), or heard hours, days, weeks, or even months ago (delayed echolalia).

EEG: Electroencephalogram: This is a procedure for measuring the brain’s electrical activity. It involves simply sticking wires to the scalp and recording the natural activity of the brain.

Elective mutism: A disorder characterized by mutism in specific situations (i.e. the child speaks only in certain circumstances). Often there is evidence of extreme shyness and sensitivity.

Engagement: The ability to remain focused and interactive with (or responsive to) a person or object.

Epilepsy: A group of conditions resulting from abnormal electrical discharges in the brain which can produce seizures and disturbances in consciousness.

Estate planning: Formal, written arrangements for handling the possessions and assets of people after they have died.

Etiology: The study of the cause of disease.

Evaluation: See Assessment.

Event-related potential: Refers to the measurable electrical activity in the brain following stimulation.

Expressive language: The ability to use gestures, words, and written symbols to communicate.

Extinction: A procedure in which reinforcement of a previously reinforced behavior is withheld.