Language Disorder

About Language Disorder

Language disorder is a communication disorder in which a person has persistent difficulty acquiring and using language across speech, writing or sign language, due to problems with comprehension or production. Features can include a reduced vocabulary, limited sentence structure and difficulties with discourse, such as explaining events or holding a conversation. Abilities are substantially below age expectations and the difficulties begin in early development and are not better explained by hearing impairment, another medical or neurological condition, or intellectual disability. When it occurs without another known condition it has also been called developmental language disorder or specific language impairment. It is a relatively common childhood condition, often runs in families and is associated with later difficulties in reading and learning, as well as social and emotional challenges. Speech and language therapy, often delivered with involvement of parents and teachers, is the main evidence based approach, together with educational support.