The language of dissociation.
Three case studies of inner-city elementary school children illustrate the connection between speech-language disorders and dissociative disorders in children who have known or suspected trauma histories. The role of speech language pathologists in identifying and responding to dissociative symptoms in children is explored. Lack of adequate training concerning the impact of trauma and scarce literature on the communication profiles of dissociative children contributes and greatly impacts the diagnosis, referral, and treatment of these children. The case studies demonstrate how unusual speech and language symptoms and awareness of dissociative features may aid in identifying trauma-related problems and instituting effective treatment. Grounding techniques and specific language interventions can assist children in acquiring the vocabulary needed for communicating both their daily experiences and traumatic histories. The nature of the relationship between dissociation and communication disorders is explored, and the importance of future research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and trauma training in the speech-language curriculum is emphasized.
Yehuda
Na'ama
N
naamayehuda@aol.com
D002648:Child; D002649:Child Abuse / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy*; D002652:Child Behavior; D004213:Dissociative Disorders / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007804:Language Development; D007805:Language Development Disorders / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D007859:Learning Disabilities / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy; D008297:Male; D013066:Speech-Language Pathology / Q000379:methods*