Internalizing Behavioral Problems in Children with Specific Language Impairment
Abstract Background Specific language impairment (SLI) occurs when children present language maturation, at least 12 months behind their chronological age in the absence of sensory or intellectual deficits, pervasive developmental disorders, evident cerebral damage, and adequate social and emotional conditions. Internalizing behavior is actions that are taken out toward the self. The symptoms of internalizing behavior problems are depression, anxiety, somatic complaints and withdrawal. Aim of the Work This study aimed to investigate the presence of internalizing behavioral problems among SLI and their frequencies if present. Patients and methods We assessed SLI by PLS-4 and assessed internalizing behavioral problems with CBCL 1 1/5-5. Fifty children with SLI with an age range of (4-5 years old), divided into 2 subgroups according to the type of SLI, are compared to fifty children with normal language development with the same age and gender regarding internalizing behavioral problems. Results SLI group had more internalizing behavioral problems than control group and there is significant association between behavioral problems and the severity of language deficits. Conclusion the most frequently behavioral problem found in preschool (SLI) children were withdrawn and anxiety, which need therapeutic interventions to remediate them.