Which pattern is defined by repeating words spoken by others?

• A. Perseveration
• B. Echolalia
• C. Aphasia
• D. Dyspraxia

Answer: (B)

Repetition of words heard from others is echolalia. This pattern involves repeating words or phrases that someone else has said, sometimes immediately after hearing them or after a delay. It's a behavior you’ll see in early language development and can appear in some individuals with autism or other language-related differences, where mimicking speech is part of how they process language.

In contrast, perseveration is the persistent repetition of a thought, word, or action beyond its usefulness and isn’t specifically about echoing what others say. Aphasia refers to language difficulties caused by brain issues that affect speaking, understanding, reading, or writing, not simply repeating what’s heard. Dyspraxia involves challenges with planning and executing movements, including speech, but it doesn’t inherently involve repeating others’ words.