Specific Language Impairment (SLI) is a developmental disorder that affects the acquisition and use of language in children, despite the fact that there is no apparent cause such as lack of hearing, intellectual development disorders, cognitive disorders. speech or obvious brain lesions. Children with SLI have significant difficulties speaking and understanding language, which can affect their social, emotional, and academic development.
Causes of Specific Language Impairment
Although the exact causes of Specific Language Impairment are not completely clear, it is believed that it may be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some possible causes include:
1. Genetic factors
There is evidence to suggest that SLI can be inherited, as it is often seen in families with a history of language disorders. Genes may play a role in a person's predisposition to developing language problems.
2. Neurobiological factors
It has been suggested that differences in brain structure or function may contribute to the development of SLI. Alterations in specific areas of the brain that control language and communication can interfere with a child's ability to acquire and use language effectively.
3. Environmental factors
Factors such as exposure to toxins during pregnancy, complications during childbirth, or lack of language stimulation in the child's environment can also influence the development of SLI. The environment in which a child grows up can play an important role in his or her ability to learn and use language correctly.
Types of Specific Language Impairment
There are different types of Specific Language Impairment of Language that can affect children differently. Some of the most common types include:
1. Expressive SLI
Children with expressive SLI have difficulty expressing their thoughts and feelings through speech. They may have a limited vocabulary, difficulty forming grammatically correct sentences or finding the right words to communicate.
2. Receptive SLI
On the other hand, children with receptive SLI have difficulty understanding the language addressed to them. They may have problems following instructions, understanding the meaning of words, or processing auditory information effectively.
3. Mixed SLI
Some children may have a combination of expressive and receptive language difficulties, which is known as mixed SLI. These children may have problems both expressing themselves and understanding language, which can affect their communication more broadly.
Symptoms of Specific Language Impairment
Symptoms of Specific Language Impairment of Language may vary depending on the type of disorder the child presents and the severity of their difficulties. Some of the most common symptoms include:
1. Delayed speech development
Children with SLI may begin to speak later than expected and may have difficulty pronouncing certain sounds or words correctly. They may have a limited vocabulary or use incorrect grammatical structures in their speech.
2. Difficulties understanding language
Children with receptive SLI may have trouble understanding instructions, following conversations, or understanding the meaning of words. They may appear disconnected or inattentive during conversations or activities that involve language.
3. Verbal fluency problems
Some children with SLI may have difficulty communicating fluently, with frequent pauses, repetition of words or phrases, or difficulty finding the right words to express their ideas.
4. Reading and writing difficulties
SLI can also affect a child's reading and writing skills, causing problems understanding the meaning of text, recognizing written words, or expressing ideas in writing coherently.
Conclusion
In summary, Specific Language Impairment is a developmental disorder that affects the acquisition and use of language in children, without an apparent cause such as lack of hearing. or brain injuries. It is believed that genetic, neurobiological and environmental factors may contribute to the development of SLI. The different types of SLI, such as expressive, receptive and mixed, present specific symptoms that affect the child's communication ability and development. It is important to recognize the signs of SLI and seek specialized evaluation and treatment to help children overcome their difficulties and reach their full potential in terms of language and communication.