Introduction
Language impairments in children are a common developmental concern that can significantly impact educational and social outcomes. However, identifying and classifying these impairments can be challenging due to varying criteria and terminology used across different disciplines. The CATALISE study, a multinational and multidisciplinary Delphi consensus study, aimed to address these challenges by achieving consensus among professionals on criteria for identifying children who may benefit from specialist services.
Key Findings from CATALISE
The CATALISE study involved a panel of 59 experts from various disciplines, including speech-language therapy, psychology, education, and medicine. The study used a Delphi technique to reach consensus on statements regarding language impairments. Here are some of the key findings:
- Language impairments often go undetected, especially in children with behavioral or psychiatric difficulties. Referral for language assessment is recommended for these children.
- Many late talkers catch up without special help, but children with poor language comprehension, poor use of gesture, and a family history of language impairment are at greater risk of persistent problems.
- Between ages 1 and 5, specific indicators of atypical development in speech, language, or communication should prompt referral for expert assessment.
- Assessment should combine multiple sources of information, including interviews with caregivers, direct observation, and standardized tests.
- There is no clear cut-off that distinguishes language impairment from normal variation, highlighting the need for a comprehensive assessment approach.
Implications for Practitioners
For practitioners, the findings of the CATALISE study underscore the importance of a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to identifying and supporting children with language impairments. Practitioners should consider the following:
- Be vigilant for signs of language impairments, especially in children with behavioral difficulties or poor academic performance.
- Use a combination of assessment tools and methods to gain a holistic understanding of a child's language abilities.
- Consider the child's social environment and any adjustments made to counteract impairments when assessing language function.
- Engage in ongoing professional development to stay informed about the latest research and best practices in language assessment and intervention.
Encouraging Further Research
The CATALISE study also highlights the need for further research in several areas, including the development of more reliable assessment tools, understanding the relationship between language impairments and other developmental difficulties, and exploring intervention strategies for children with co-occurring conditions.
Conclusion
The CATALISE study provides valuable insights into the identification and classification of language impairments in children. By implementing the study's findings, practitioners can improve their skills and contribute to better outcomes for children with language impairments. For those interested in delving deeper into the research, the original study offers a comprehensive exploration of these issues.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: CATALISE: A Multinational and Multidisciplinary Delphi Consensus Study. Identifying Language Impairments in Children.
