The value of speech-language assessment in the diagnosis of child abuse

Language deficits and developmental delays may be helpful clues in the diagnosis of child abuse and neglect. Speech-language assessment of 27 children burned through abuse or neglect identified 22 (81%) with language delays. Other significant trends included a decreased attention span, inappropriate affect, irritability, and withdrawn behavior. We recommend speech-language assessment for all burned children suspected to be victims of abuse or neglect as part of the abuse team investigation and to identify children who may benefit from intervention.