City Research Online

Abstract

Background and aims: There is limited evidence concerning the longer-term language, literacy and cognitive skills of young adults with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD). Studies that exist suggest continuing difficulties with language and reading, but abilities may change over time.

Methods & procedures: In this paper, data was used from the [deleted for anonymity] dataset which was collected from a group of young adults with DLD (recruited originally at 7-years of age from language units - specialist educational resource bases). Participants were assessed on their language, literacy and cognitive functioning when they were aged 24. A comparison group of age matched peers (AMPs; also 24 years old) were also assessed. For language and cognition, change in scores between 16 and 24 years was also available for analysis. Finally, self-rated measures of literacy difficulties were taken at 24 years for functional reading and writing.

Outcome & results: The results indicate that the young people with DLD in this sample continue to perform more poorly as a group on formal oral and written language tests. A small but significant minority of young adults with DLD also report functional reading and writing difficulties compared to AMPs despite reporting reading as often as their peer group. Compared to scores at 16 years of age, this subsample now appears to show slightly less risk of non-verbal IQ difficulties, showing small but significant ‘catch-up’ to AMPs.

Conclusions & implications: These preliminary data suggest that at least some individuals with DLD experience marked linguistic difficulties in adulthood, and that the pathways of language, literacy and cognition are not entirely parallel for this group. Continued support and awareness of challenges for young adults with DLD may be useful.

Publication Type:	Article
Additional Information:	This is the peer reviewed version of the following article: Botting, N. (2019). Language, literacy and cognitive skills of young adults with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD). International Journal of Language and Communication Disorders, which has been published in final form at 10.1111/1460-6984.12518. This article may be used for non-commercial purposes in accordance with Wiley Terms and Conditions for Use of Self-Archived Versions.
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology P Language and Literature > P Philology. Linguistics
Departments:	School of Health & Psychological Sciences > Language & Communication Science
SWORD Depositor:	Symplectic Administrator

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