The importance of speech and language development in ADHD

Abstract

ADHD is the most common behavioral and learning problem in children and one of the most common reasons for medical examination. The DSM-5 classifies ADHD as a neurodevelopmental disorder that appears before the age of 12 and may persist into adulthood. Although ADHD is not accompanied by significant language delays in the use of syntax and semantics, recent studies show a notable association between ADHD and communication disorders. These disorders are present at the level of expressive language, the pragmatic component and the organization of speech. The mentioned disorders are present both in social communication and in the intrapersonal sphere (the language used for self-control). Through the analysis of several studies, the present paper wishes to highlight the importance of speech and language development to children with ADHD, which helps both socially and in self-control.