"Effects of treatment on linguistic and social skills in toddlers with delayed language development? by Weismer (1999). The purpose of this article was to present the efficacy and effects of early language intervention on linguistic and social skills of language delayed toddlers.
The research hypothesis was that "direct, clinician-based language intervention will result in a positive impact on the expressive language abilities of late-talking toddlers as compared to children in a delayed-treatment group" (p. 1238). A secondary research question examined what the role of this intervention was regarding increased socialization skills, to include the parent' perceptions.
The participants for the study were 21 late-talking toddlers (12 boys, 9 girls; ages 21 to 30 months). There were 11 in the experimental group and ten in the control group. All participants demonstrated normal development in other areas.
The procedures included experimental group participation in a 12 week language intervention, and the comparison of two groups at pretest and posttest regarding five linguistic variables.
The results showed that significant group differences were demonstrated for each variable. It was also found that areas not targeted by the intervention, such as social interactions, were positively affected.
The authors therefore concluded that the treatment was effective. The authors also pointed out that the study only provided short-term effects.
The purpose of the study was logically, appropriately, and adequately supported with previous research which led to the research questions and hypothesis. Although opposing views were lacking, the research pointed out definitions of language delay and clinical management with outcomes, and it was mentioned that research regarding toddlers is lacking, thus supporting the study need.
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