Common diagnostic categories	Frequent communication outcomes
Down syndrome	Language comprehension better than production, particularly syntax: prolonged period of unintelligible speech in early childhood and otitis media; strengths in social and pragmatic skills.
Fragile-X syndrome	More severe outcomes for boys than girls.
	Delayed onset of language production skills, particularly syntax, with relative strengths in vocabulary and language comprehension.
	Social interaction and pragmatic behaviors similar to those associated with autism.
	Prolonged unintelligible speech.
Autism	Qualitative impairment in social interaction, lack of social reciprocity.
	Delay or absence of spoken communication without compensatory alternative forms.
	Impaired communication initiation; stereotypic, and repetitive use of language

Adapted from Language Disorders From Infancy Through Adolescence: Assessment and Intervention, by R. Paul, 2001, St. Louis, MO: Mosby. Copyright 2001 by Mosby