An examination of language learning disabilities in youth with psychiatric disorders.

This study examined the relationship between psychiatric and language disorders in a sample of youth who were hospitalized at a private psychiatric hospital. Ninety six participants were given a test battery that consisted of tests measuring phonology, syntax, and semantics. The resulting sample scored in the average range on IQ measures and in the low-average to below-average range on written language abilities tests. Over 33% of the participants qualified for the diagnosis of a language learning disability (LLD); however, only 44% of those participants who qualified as LLD were receiving special education services upon admission. The participants who had both a psychiatric and LLD exhibited significant deficits in both phonology and syntax. General implications for identification and treatment are presented.