Linking language learning patterns in toddlers with developmental language disorder
A Developmental Framework for Linking Phonological and Morphosyntactic Sequential Pattern Rules in Developmental Language Disorder
This study is trying to see how toddlers with developmental language disorder learn language patterns to help create better ways to support them.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 150 (estimated) |
| Ages | 19 Months to 36 Months |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Arizona Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Tucson, Arizona and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT04531514 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical study aims to explore the connection between morphological and phonological deficits in toddlers with developmental language disorder (DLD) by assessing their ability to learn sequential patterns. The research combines insights from linguistics and language acquisition to identify specific pattern types that children with DLD struggle with, particularly focusing on morpho-syntactic patterns. By evaluating toddlers aged 4 to 6 years, the study seeks to develop earlier assessments and more effective interventions for DLD and at-risk populations. The approach involves sensitivity to phonological rules and referents to better understand language acquisition challenges.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are toddlers aged 4 to 6 years with normal hearing and typical development who have a dominant exposure to English.
Not a fit: Patients who have hearing impairments, intellectual disabilities, autism, or significant motor impairments may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to earlier and more effective interventions for toddlers with developmental language disorders.
How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in linking language learning patterns to developmental outcomes.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Toddlers will, based on parent case history report, have * normal hearing * no medical or developmental concerns * Language, speech, social, and motor development will be reported as within the expected range * dominant exposure to English from infancy * expressive vocabulary above the 10th percentile on the MacArthur-Bates Communicative Development Inventory (CDI; Fenson et al., 2006). Exclusion Criteria: Participants will be excluded who have * hearing impairment * intellectual impairment * autism * significant motor impairment * reported histories of developmental, speech, language, or hearing disorders
Where this trial is running
Tucson, Arizona and 1 other locations
- University of Arizona — Tucson, Arizona, United States (Recruiting)
- University of Texas at Dallas — Richardson, Texas, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: LouAnn Gerken, PhD — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Megan Figueroa, PhD
- Email: megan@arizona.edu
- Phone: 6232298787
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.