Acoustic Features of Emotional Prosody Production in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: This preregistered meta-analysis aims to synthesize empirical evidence on acoustic features of emotional prosody production in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) compared to typically developing (TD) peers. Following PRISMA guidelines, we will systematically search major international and Chinese databases for studies published within a predefined time frame. Eligible studies must include a formally diagnosed ASD group, a TD comparison group, and quantitative acoustic measurements derived from emotional prosody production tasks (e.g., imitation, reading, or spontaneous speech). Standardized mean differences (Hedges’ g) will be calculated, and random-effects models will be applied to account for between-study variability. Moderator analyses will examine emotional, linguistic, developmental, and methodological factors contributing to heterogeneity. Publication bias will be assessed using funnel plots, Egger’s test, trim-and-fill procedures, and fail-safe N. This preregistration specifies the eligibility criteria and analytic plan prior to quantitative synthesis.
Authors: Shaoju Jin, Jin Sun, Chunyan Zhou
Language: English
Subfield: Cognitive Neuroscience
Field: Neuroscience
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7134126771