engleski

Developmental Language Disorder in the eyes of independent observers: findings from Croatian contexts

Although developmental language disorder (DLD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders, the level of public awareness about it is still relatively low. Lack of awareness leads to misconceptions, thus negatively impacting timely referral and outcomes. Previous studies have indicated that levels of awareness depend on demographic factors, and the existing misconceptions vary with respect to cultural customs and country-specific contexts (Thordardottir, Topbaş, 2021). This study investigates awareness of DLD in Croatia, and compares it to the awareness of other neurodevelopmental disorders. It further outlines the prevailing misconceptions regarding causes, possibilities of prevention and recovery. A convenience sample of adults (N=92) participated in the study, with even distribution across age, gender and education. Participants filled out a Public Survey (Thordardottir et al., 2021), and their responses were observed as a function of demographic factors. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, t tests and analysis of variance, where appropriate. Results indicate relatively low level of awareness, with tendencies of education-induced differences. Although 70, 7% of participants heard of DLD, they possess inadequate knowledge (e.g. confuse speech with language-related problems). Respondents seems to be more aware of ASD than of DLD (t=-4.23 ; p<0.01 ; h=0.6) and partly hold the opinion that DLD may be prevented and spontaneously overcome. Low awareness hinders recognition and early intervention, which can have negative psychosocial-emotional consequences for individuals with DLD. The obtained findings confirm that the awareness of DLD is worryingly low, so we argue for well-planned awareness- raising activities and the accumulation of systematic research on DLD.

Developmental language disorder ; public survey ; awareness ; misconceptions

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