Disorders of Speech, Language, and Communication

Disorders of speech, language and social communication are common developmental disorders that greatly increase a child\u27s risk for academic underachievement, social disadvantage and poorer employment prospects. In addition, children presenting for psychiatric evaluation are known to have high rates of previously unsuspected language and social communication disorder. Thus, it is crucial for clinicians to be alert to the types of communication difficulties children may experience, in order to facilitate appropriate referrals and support. This chapter provides an overview of the key features of each of these three disorders and common approaches to intervention. Language disorders will be reviewed in detail with regard to putative biological causes and cognitive profiles. Social (pragmatic) communication disorder is a new disorder introduced in DSM-5. Key features of this disorder and challenges for diagnosis are outlined. Language is particularly vulnerable to atypical development and as a consequence, high rates of co-morbidity are observed with a number of neurodevelopmental disorders