Abstract
By a focus on three essential elements of language, phonology, semantics, and syntax, a time frame for critical/sensitive periods of language development is presented as a model of central auditory nervous system flexibility. Several studies support the hypothesis that the critical/sensitive period of phonology is from the sixth month of fetal life through the 12th month of infancy. Data indicates that the critical/sensitive periods for syntax runs through the fourth year of life, and for semantics through the 15th or 16th year of life. The data indicate that there is a time dependent series of functions in sequence that is based on responsive adaptations made by the CNS to psychophysical and electrophysiological stimuli.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 85-89 |
| Number of pages | 5 |
| Journal | Indian Journal of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery |
| Volume | 51 |
| Issue number | 3 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - 1999 |
Keywords
- Critical/sensitive periods
- Language development
- Phonology
- Semantics
- Syntax
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Surgery
- Otorhinolaryngology