Which of the following statements about language impairment is correct?

• A. Children with language impairment typically outgrow all symptoms by age three without intervention.
• B. Language impairment affects only expressive language and never receptive language.
• C. Language impairment always results from hearing loss or intellectual disability.
• D. Specific language impairment can occur in children who have normal intelligence and no obvious sensory deficits.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of language impairment: it refers to difficulties in acquiring and using language due to problems with comprehension or production, not necessarily linked to other disabilities.
2. Evaluate the first statement: consider whether children typically outgrow language impairment symptoms by age three without intervention, and recall research findings on persistence of symptoms.
3. Analyze the second statement: distinguish between expressive language (speaking) and receptive language (understanding), and recognize that language impairment can affect either or both.
4. Examine the third statement: assess whether language impairment is always caused by hearing loss or intellectual disability, or if it can occur independently.
5. Confirm the correct statement: specific language impairment (SLI) can occur in children who have normal intelligence and no obvious sensory deficits, meaning it is a distinct condition not caused by other impairments.