Introduction to Language Disorders

Vocabulary flashcards derived from key concepts related to language disorders and language development theory.

Language

A complex, dynamic system of conventional symbols used for thought and expression.

Speech

The articulation and fluency of speech sounds and the quality of voice.

Communication

The exchange of symbolic and nonsymbolic information, such as gestures and facial expressions.

Language Disorder

Impaired comprehension and/or use of spoken, written, and/or other symbol systems.

Receptive Language

The ability to understand and process language.

Expressive Language

The ability to express meaning through language.

Developmental Language Disorder (DLD)

A significant language impairment affecting children, which may lead to difficulty in various language skills.

Late Language Emergence (LLE)

A developmental language delay in children under age 3 with no other diagnosed disabilities.

Language Difference

A variation in language due to regional, social, cultural, or ethnic factors.

Semantics

The area of language that describes meaning.

Phonology

The sound system of a language.

Morphology

The structure of words and word forms.

Syntax

The order and combination of words in sentences.

Pragmatics

Socially appropriate and functional language use.

Behaviorist Theory

Proposed by B.F. Skinner; emphasizes that language is learned through reinforcement and punishment.

Constructivist Theory

Proposed by Jean Piaget; emphasizes that language develops through cognitive developmental stages.

Social Interactionist Theory

Proposed by Lev Vygotsky; emphasizes that language is learned through social interaction.

Emergentist Theory

A modern theory combining nature and nurture using tools like brain imaging.

Perlocutionary Stage

The stage from birth to 8 months where caregivers assign meaning to infant behaviors.

Illocutionary Stage

The stage from 9 to 12 months where infants intentionally communicate.

Locutionary Stage

The stage after 12 months where first words are used intentionally.

Reflexive Sounds

Early sounds such as crying and grunting.

Cooing

Early vowel-like sounds made by infants.

Babbling

Repetitive consonant-vowel combinations produced by infants.

Jargon

Speech-like intonation with nonsense words.

Vocabulary Boom

Rapid vocabulary growth that typically occurs around age 2.

Grammatical Morphemes

Units of meaning added to words, such as -ing, plural -s, past tense.

Advanced Pragmatics

Complex skills such as negotiating opinions and maintaining discourse.