Developmental language disorders in Cyprus
mapping speech and language service provision to vulnerable children
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1558/jmbs.20329Keywords:
developmental language disorder, service provision, speech and language therapy, European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) IS 1406, policyAbstract
The term developmental language disorder (DLD) refers to the condition in which a child fails to achieve the speech and language milestones that are expected for his/her chronological age. The disorder is often linked to a series of add-on effects such as learning difficulties, trouble with socializing, problematic behaviour and low self-esteem. According to the international literature, DLD affects approximately 7% of school children in mainstream education. This paper reports on research conducted in Cyprus aiming to map the services provided by speech and language therapists (SLTs) to children with DLD. A questionnaire containing key areas of enquiry was developed and distributed to professionals working with DLD in Cyprus. A total of 44 responses were submitted by SLTs who provide services to individuals with DLD. The findings showed that the majority of children with DLD are diagnosed with a mixed receptive/expressive language disorder and are, on average, 7 years of age. The speech therapy interventions provided by professionals were twice a week and were most often on an individual basis. The maximum number of sessions was not pre-determined. Findings underscored the need for further research in defining service provision issues for children with DLD in Cyprus.
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