Language Development and Disorders

Epidemiology and concepts : Epidemiology, longitudinal course, and some associated factors: an update; Classification of childhood language disorders; Concepts of language development: a realistic perspective. Language development: biological and psychosocial aspects : Prelinguistic communication; Aspects of language development in the preschool years; The conversational requirements for language learning; Environmental influences on language development; The developmental neurobiology of language; Developmental neuropsychological correlates of language; The `what' and `how' of language development: a note on some outstanding issues and questions. Disorders of language development and their correlates : Language acquisition, language disorder and cognitive development; Developmental disorders of speech and language; Language disorders associated with psychiatric disturbance; Language development and sensory disorder: visual and hearing impairments; Language development and mental retardation; The social context: communication in families with a handicapped child; The consequences of language delay for other aspects of development. Assessment : Assessment of language disorders; Psychological assessment; Paediatric assessment; Assessment of hearing in children; Speech therapy. Research : Behavioural approaches to language; Non-vocal communication systems: a critical survey; Trends in communication aid technology for the severely speech-impaired; The use of alternative systems and microelectronics as aids to communication and language development; Special education; Family issues; Services.