Developmental Language Disorder - Boys Town National Research Hospital Web

Summary

Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) affects approximately 7% of the population and manifests as difficulties in learning to talk and understand language, often evident from early childhood. Unlike autism, DLD is less recognized, leading parents to mistakenly attribute language challenges to other conditions. Early identification by speech language pathologists is crucial for effective intervention, although diagnosis can occur in young adulthood, providing clarity about past struggles in school. Understanding DLD opens up opportunities for individuals to develop strategies for improved learning and communication.

Takeaways

• 😀 DLD (Developmental Language Disorder) affects about 7% of the population.
• 😀 DLD describes difficulties in learning to talk and understand language.
• 😀 The disorder is often evident in early childhood but can persist into adulthood.
• 😀 Children with DLD can communicate, but their language use is typically simpler.
• 😀 DLD is more common than autism, yet less recognized in society.
• 😀 Parents may mistakenly suspect autism or attention deficit disorder when their child has DLD.
• 😀 Differentiating DLD from other disorders requires assessment by a speech-language pathologist.
• 😀 Early identification of DLD is crucial for effective intervention and skill development.
• 😀 It's never too late to diagnose DLD; even young adults can receive a diagnosis and gain insights into their challenges.
• 😀 Understanding DLD can provide individuals with strategies for better learning and communication.

Q & A

What does DLD stand for?

DLD stands for Developmental Language Disorder.

How common is Developmental Language Disorder?

Developmental Language Disorder affects about 7% of the population.

What is the primary issue associated with DLD?

DLD describes a difficulty in learning to talk and understand language.

At what age is DLD typically evident?

The problem is often evident in early childhood but can follow individuals into adulthood.

Can children with DLD communicate?

Yes, children with DLD can communicate, but they may do so in a simpler or less rich way than expected for their age.

How does the prevalence of DLD compare to autism?

DLD is more common than autism, although many people have heard more about autism.

What misconceptions might parents have regarding their child's difficulties?

Parents may suspect autism or attention deficit disorder when their child has difficulties, but it could be DLD.

Why is early diagnosis of DLD important?

Early diagnosis is optimal because it provides a good window for helping the child make changes and learn compensatory skills.

Is it ever too late to diagnose DLD?

No, it is never too late; even young adults can be diagnosed with DLD for the first time and find it helps explain their past struggles.

What benefits can individuals gain from a DLD diagnosis?

A diagnosis can provide answers about past challenges in school and offer strategies for better learning.