Specific language impairment: Effect on later language development: A literature review

Abstract

Background: Children with specific language impairment (SLI) are at considerable risk for later language development. However, there has not been a good literature review to provide understanding and to get information relative to parental counseling and decision making for further management. Objective: To summarize the literature review on SLI and effect on later language development. Material and Method: Longitudinal studies were systematically explored to seek evidence- based information to confirm the lasting effect of SLI in later language development. Results: Natural history data indicated that approximately 50% of children with specific expressive language delay spontaneously remitted or outgrew it at age 5-8. However, long-term follow-up studies showed their language problems emerged later at age 15. The rest of the children's (50%), language impairment persisted and had a high risk for SLI later. Conclusion: The results suggest that active intervention should be performed as soon as possible for children with persisting SLI.