Written for core introductory coursework on language disorders, Language Disorders Across the Lifespan has been thoroughly updated to illustrate how the latest research can be applied to actual practice by speech language pathologists when diagnosing and treating language delays and disorders in clients of all ages. The book maintains a clear progression from preschool to school-age children to adults in order to differentiate the origins and progression of language disorders. New to the Third Edition -Includes a chapter on "setting the stage" for achieving linguistic and literacy success in consideration of the potential long-term impact of delays and disorders in the preschool years. -Dedicates a chapter to autism that explores etiology, warning signs, assessment and diagnosis, and treatment methods. -Features "Think About It" scenarios that pose theoretical and ethical questions for you to consider how you would deal with various situations as a speech-language pathologist. -Expands the discussion of multicultural and socioeconomic issues in assessment to include such topics as demographic issues and legal mandates. Key Features -Continues to be the only text available that covers language delays and disorders from infancy through adulthood by offering practical application of research to clinical practice. -Offers a case study at the end of each chapter that teaches how to apply research to actual practice by presenting real life examples of clients coping with language delays and disorders. -Provides additional study aids including learning objectives, margin definitions, chapter summaries, and review questions.