Mapping the Neural Basis of Language and Language Disorders Across Childhood

Abstract

Language disorders (LD) are amongst the most common developmental disorders in children. Children with LD are at high risk for low quality of life as they experience academic, emotional and social difficulties. The advances in electrophysiological and neuroimaging techniques have enhanced the current understanding of how children with LD are differentiated from their typically developing counterparts. A growing body of literature suggests that children who fit the criteria for LD diagnosis show distinctive structural and activation patterns, even from infancy. Early detection of those neuronal signs that point towards a potential LD diagnosis will allow both a timely diagnosis and the development of tailored intervention programs. The present chapter aims to provide an overview of the evidence regarding the neural basis of typical language development and LD across childhood.