How can you distinguish between language and communication disorders?

2 What are communication disorders?

Communication disorders are problems with the ability to use language or other forms of communication effectively and appropriately in different contexts. These disorders can affect speech, voice, fluency, or social skills, and can be either developmental (from birth or early childhood) or acquired (from brain injury, stroke, disease, or environmental factors). Examples of communication disorders include speech sound disorders which involve difficulties in articulation, phonology, or apraxia; voice disorders which affect the quality, pitch, loudness, or resonance of the voice; fluency disorders which involve repetitions, prolongations, or blocks of sounds or words (the most common being stuttering); and social communication disorder which affects the ability to use verbal and nonverbal communication skills in social situations due to issues with pragmatics, theory of mind, or emotional regulation.

3 How to distinguish between language and communication disorders?

Language and communication disorders are often related and overlapping, but they are distinct. To identify the differences between them, consider the nature of the problem (understanding or producing language, or using language effectively), the scope of the problem (affecting one or more aspects of language or communication), the origin of the problem (developmental or acquired disorder), and the impact of the problem (affecting academic, social, or occupational performance).

4 How to diagnose language and communication disorders?

Qualified professionals, such as speech-language pathologists, audiologists, psychologists, or neurologists can diagnose language and communication disorders. The diagnosis process typically includes a comprehensive assessment of the person's medical, developmental, and family history, as well as their current symptoms and concerns. Moreover, standardized or criterion-referenced tests of the person's language or communication skills may be administered. This could include vocabulary, grammar, comprehension, expression, speech, voice, or fluency. Observing the person's language or communication behavior in natural or simulated settings such as home, school, or work is also important. In addition, the person's test scores and observations are compared to expected norms or criteria for their age, gender, culture, or education level. Lastly, a differential diagnosis is done to rule out other possible disorders or factors that may affect the person's language or communication skills such as hearing loss, intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, or emotional problems.

5 How to treat language and communication disorders?

Treating language and communication disorders requires qualified professionals, such as speech-language pathologists, audiologists, psychologists, or neurologists. The treatment plan typically involves a collaborative goal-setting process to identify the person's strengths, needs, preferences, and expectations for their language or communication skills. It also includes a tailored intervention program focusing on aspects of language or communication that need improvement. Strategies and techniques such as modeling, prompting, feedback, reinforcement, cueing, or scaffolding are used to facilitate the person's learning and use of language or communication skills. Regular monitoring and evaluation of the person's progress and outcomes is necessary to assess the effectiveness of the intervention program. Lastly, a supportive and inclusive environment should be provided to promote the person's participation and interaction with others as well as their confidence and self-esteem.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?