Sociodemographic Characteristics Associated With Speech and Language Delay and Disorders

The aim of this study was to identify major risk factors and sociodemographic characteristics responsible for speech and language delay/disorders. Two hundred twenty-eight children (aged 24-72 months) with speech and language delay/disorders participated in this study. The Ankara Developmental Screening Inventory and The Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test were used to assess language profiles and developmental stages of children. Low income, nonattendance in preschool education, low maternal education, having two or more siblings, later birth order (order of siblings), family history of speech and language delay/disorders, preterm birth, low birth weight, and birth complications or the need for intensive care support during neonatal period were identified as risk factors (all p < 0.005). Both sociodemographic and biologic factors were associated with speech and language delay/disorders. Awareness of these factors may provide a chance for earlier diagnosis and intervention. Identification of risk factors of these children would contribute to our knowledge in this field.