Phonological ability as a determinant for defining and interpreting phonological disorders

Abstract

This study gives an overview of different approaches to defining and analyzing the development of phonological abilities for the purpose of determining and understanding the nature of developmental phonological disorders. Earlier studies have observed developmental phonological disorders from the aspect of how linguistics understands phonology. However, some newer studies show that the focus has now shifted to overall linguistic behavior and linguistic functioning. The purpose of this study was to make a conceptual framework for both phonological abilities and disorders, based on considerations about the development of linguistic and psycholinguistic theories. Key elements for defining a phonological ability and detecting a phonological disorder have been outlined. The study ends with the conclusion that the two main determinants for recognizing and defining a phonological disorder in children are the perception of the notion of phonological ability and knowledge about the main and specific characteristics of phonological subsystems.