Defining Communication Disorders Across Cultures

Friday, 5:30pm to 6:30pm
Windgate Hall
SP16
Across the literature, there is a lack of consensus of how to define communication disorders internationally, especially in developing countries. Many efforts have been made by the World Health Organization (WHO) to define disorders and disabilities more effectively and thoroughly across disciplines and cultures. Because of this lack of consensus, the current study aims to compile definitions of communication disorders from speech-language pathologists and special education teachers from various countries and compare them to the ICF definition of a communication disability as well as gain insight into various countries beliefs and opinions on disabilities versus disorders within their culture. This knowledge will help speech-language pathologists better understand how to work with culturally diverse populations.
Track: 
Multi-Interest