Which statement about Specific Language Impairment is true?

• A. It is caused by hearing loss.
• B. It is always accompanied by nonverbal IQ below average.
• C. It involves language deficits with otherwise typical cognitive development.
• D. It affects only phonology.

Answer: (C)

Specific Language Impairment is defined by language difficulties that occur despite otherwise typical cognitive development. Children with SLI have normal nonverbal intelligence and no hearing loss, yet they struggle with language compared to peers of the same age. This means the main challenge is language itself, not a broader cognitive or sensory problem. That’s why the statement describing language deficits with otherwise typical cognitive development is true. It also helps to know that SLI can affect grammar and sentence structure as well as vocabulary and broader language use, not just phonology. The other options don’t fit because hearing loss would point to a different cause, nonverbal IQ below average isn’t a requirement, and language problems aren’t limited just to phonology.