Understanding Language Development in Adults with and without Developmental Language Disorder

Language outcomes, mechanisms, and trajectories in adults with and without Developmental Language Disorder

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF IOWA · NIH-11163373

This project looks at how language skills develop and change over time in adults who have Developmental Language Disorder and those who do not.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF IOWA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11163373 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

We want to learn more about how Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) affects adults, as it can impact education, employment, and overall well-being. Our goal is to understand the long-term language abilities of adults with DLD and identify the specific thinking processes that influence these skills. We will explore how people process language, especially when there are competing word meanings, to better understand the underlying causes of DLD. This will help us explain why language abilities vary among individuals and contribute to better support for adults with DLD.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this work would be adults with and without Developmental Language Disorder who are interested in contributing to research on language development.

Not a fit: Patients who are not adults or do not have an interest in language development research may not directly benefit from this particular study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of Developmental Language Disorder in adults, potentially informing future strategies to improve language support and overall well-being.

How similar studies have performed: While DLD in adulthood is under-researched, the fundamental components of language processing and competition have been well-documented in typical adults.

Where this research is happening

IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.