Speech language pathologist and researcher Sean Redmond discusses the overlap between ADHD and DLD, comparing ADHD and SLI, challenges in seeking diagnosis for language disorders, implications for screening, comorbidity, and childhood books. Hosts connect podcast to website and recommend books for listeners.
Recognition and awareness levels between Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) differ, highlighting the need for better identification and differentiation techniques.
Diagnosing and labeling language disorders in the school context require a clearer framework for differential diagnosis, especially in distinguishing language impairments from comorbid conditions like ADHD or autism.
Deep dives
The Study of Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) and ADHD
The podcast episode explores the study of Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The speaker discusses the contrasting recognition and awareness levels between the two conditions, emphasizing the need for better identification and differentiation techniques. They highlight the shared prevalence and the challenges of under- or over-identification in each condition. The podcast explores the need for cross-communication between professionals and the importance of considering factors like processing speed and sustained attention when studying both conditions. It also touches on the need for differential diagnosis and assesses the practicality and efficacy of screening measures for identifying language impairments.
Challenges in Diagnosing and Labeling Language Disorders
The podcast delves into the challenges faced in diagnosing and labeling language disorders, particularly in the school context. It discusses the hesitation to provide diagnoses due to concerns of over-labeling and the lack of emphasis on differential diagnosis in speech language pathology textbooks. The speaker highlights the need for a clearer framework for diagnosis, especially in distinguishing language impairments from other comorbid conditions, such as ADHD or autism. The conversation explores the frustration expressed by parents in understanding their child's difficulties and the potential negative consequences of relying solely on functional measures like receipt of services.
Universal Screening for Developmental Language Disorders
The podcast discusses the potential benefits of universal screening for Developmental Language Disorders (DLD) in early education settings. The speaker emphasizes the need to identify language impairments early to provide appropriate support and intervention. They highlight the challenges faced in implementing universal screening within the school system and the resistance to labeling or referral processes. The importance of collaboration between different professionals and the possibility of using Response to Intervention (RTI) frameworks for language stimulation and support are also explored.
Longitudinal Study and Risk Resilience Factors in Language Impaired Children
The podcast introduces an ongoing longitudinal study focusing on the symptom progression and risk resilience factors in children with language impairments, ADHD, both conditions, and neither condition. The study aims to understand the stability and changes in language and ADHD symptoms over time, as well as explore potential protective factors that may lead to favorable outcomes in these children. The speaker also discusses the inclusion of sibling measurements to examine family-level risk. The study has the potential to offer valuable insights into the nature and development of these conditions.