The Possible Relationship between Language Delay and Behavioral/Emotional Problems in Young Children Referred to a Developmental Clinic

Sarah McClure

Abstract:

The purpose of this study is to investigate the possible relationship between language delay and behavioral/emotional problems in toddlers who were referred to a developmental clinic.

Previous research suggests that language delay during early childhood is related to diagnoses of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, anxiety disorder, and social problems. Only a few studies have looked at the relationship between language delay and behavioral/emotional problems in children under three years of age. Additionally, the results of these studies are inconclusive. Whereas some studies find a relationship between language problems and behavioral/emotional problems, others do not. The majority of the studies that do examine this relationship in children under three years of age, look at the general population. One theory is that if there is a relationship between language problems and behavioral/emotional problems at this young age, then maybe it will be seen more clearly in a referred population where children with the most extreme problems are found.

Both behavioral/emotional problems and language delay were measured using parent report. Behavioral/emotional problems were measured using the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) which contains 99 specific behavioral/emotional problem items that parents rate as not true, sometimes true or very true. Language delay was measured using the Language Development Survey (LDS), which is a 310-word checklist where parents indicate which words his/her child says spontaneously.

There are currently 91 participants, ages 1 ¹/₂– 3 ¹/₂ year olds. It is hypothesized that there will be a correlation between the LDS and the CBCL when the data are analyzed both continuously and categorically. Additionally, it is hypothesized that the behavior problems most likely to be associated with language delay include: attention problems, aggressive behavior, anxious/depressed symptoms and withdrawn symptoms.