Which statement best describes a language disorder?

• A. It only affects the form of language (phonology and syntax).
• B. It is identical to a reading disorder.
• C. It involves impaired comprehension and/or use of spoken, written, and/or other symbol systems, and may involve pragmatics, semantics, or form.
• D. It affects only expressive language, not receptive.

Answer: (C)

Language disorders involve difficulties with understanding and using language across different forms and modes. They aren’t limited to how language sounds or its grammar; they can affect meaning (semantics), social use of language (pragmatics), and how language is understood or expressed in spoken, written, or other symbol systems. Receptive (understanding) and expressive (using) abilities may both be affected, or one may be more impacted.

That’s why the best description is that a language disorder involves impaired comprehension and/or use of spoken, written, and/or other symbol systems, and may involve pragmatics, semantics, or form.

The other statements are too narrow or inaccurate: language disorders aren’t only about form; they’re not identical to a reading disorder (a reading disorder is a separate issue that can co-occur); and they aren’t restricted to expressive language only.