Graduation Year

Fall 2010

Document Type

Open Access Senior Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Psychology

Reader 1

Kathleen Brown

Abstract

This paper explores literature on the effects of communication disorders on the social development of children. The paper discusses such topics as the effects of communication disorders on personality development, the ability to make friends and resolve conflict with peers, and academic success. It also discusses the influences of multiculturalism and bilingualism on the diagnosis of communication disorders and reflects on the importance of awareness of cultural differences in communication style to avoid a misdiagnosis. Research shows that without intervention and treatment communication disorders can have irreversible detrimental effects on a child’s ability to develop effect social-communication, to make friends, and to be successful in academic pursuits. Intervention strategies are discussed, such as group and individual therapy, as well as social skills and communication skills treatment. Effective intervention can help children overcome or avoid many of the negative effects of communication disorders and can allow them to reach their developmental potential and achieve success in many areas of life.

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