Can drawings facilitate symbolic understanding of figurative language in children?

• Published in: British journal of developmental psychology 2020-09, Vol.38 (3), p.345-362
• Main Authors: Allen, Melissa L., Butler, Harriet
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Between-subjects design; Childhood; children; Dogs; figurative language; metaphor; symbolic; Symbols; Understanding
• ISSN: 0261-510X; 2044-835X
• DOI: 10.1111/bjdp.12330

Understanding figurative language develops during middle childhood. Drawing can facilitate recall and may aid other aspects of linguistic expression. We examined whether children provide more symbolic interpretations of figurative statements in drawings relative to verbal explanations, and whether drawing facilitates overall symbolic interpretation. Ninety‐six children were split into three age groups (5–6, 7–8, and 9–10 years) in a between‐subjects design. In the ‘draw‐first’ condition, they were asked to depict then explain figurative statements (e.g., raining like cats and dogs), and in the ‘explain‐first’ condition, children were asked to explain before drawing. We coded for symbolic or literal content. Overall, children provided more symbolic responses for verbal explanations compared to drawings, with a developmental increase. More symbolic responses occurred in the ‘draw‐first’ condition compared to other task by condition combinations, suggesting drawing can facilitate subsequent symbolic verbal explanation. We discuss the links between drawings, figurative language, and development. Statement of contribution What is already known on this subject? Understanding figurative language such as metaphor develops during childhood. Drawing has been shown to aid recall and may aid other aspects of linguistic expression. What the present study adds? Drawing figurative expressions facilitates subsequent symbolic verbal explanations. Children provide more symbolic interpretations in verbal explanations compared to drawings. There is a developmental progression in these abilities.