The Functions of Language in the Life of a Child with Language Disorder

Fauziyya Muhammad Hassan Ph.D

doi:10.56201/ijelcs.vol.11.no5.2026.pg112.122

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The Functions of Language in the Life of a Child with Language Disorder

Fauziyya Muhammad Hassan Ph.D

Abstract

Language is a fundamental human capacity that supports communication, cognitive development, social interaction, emotional expression, and cultural participation. Although children naturally acquire language through interaction with caregivers, peers, and their environment, those with language disorders often experience persistent difficulties that hinder their overall development. This paper examines the functions of language in the life of a child with language disorder, highlighting its significance in communication, learning, socialization, emotional well-being, and academic achievement. The study adopts a qualitative approach based on a critical review and content analysis of relevant scholarly literature. Halliday's Functional Theory of Language provides the theoretical framework because it conceptualizes language as a multifunctional social resource through which children satisfy communicative, cognitive, and interpersonal needs. The review reveals that language disorders extend beyond communication deficits to adversely affect literacy development, educational attainment, social relationships, emotional regulation, self- esteem, and participation in everyday activities. The paper further establishes that impairments in language restrict children's ability to perform essential instrumental, regulatory, interactional, heuristic, personal, imaginative, and informative functions. It concludes that language is indispensable to children's holistic development and that early identification, evidence-based speech-language intervention, active family involvement, multidisciplinary collaboration, and inclusive educational practices are essential for improving communicative competence, educational outcomes, social inclusion, and the overall quality of life of children with language disorders.

Keywords

LanguageLanguage DisorderChild DevelopmentCommunicationHalliday's Functional Theory.

References

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The Functions of Language in the Life of a Child with Language Disorder

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