Developmental Language Disorder and Developmental Neuropsychology: An Exploration of Executive Functions and Motor Coordination in Preschoolers

Authors

  • Paolo Stievano Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy ASL ROMA 2
  • Davide Apicerni Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
  • Sergio Melogno Faculty of Psychology, “Niccolò Cusano” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
  • Barbara Trimarco Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
  • Giovanni Valeri Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, Rome, Italy
  • Teresa Gloria Scalisi Department of Psychology of Developmental and Socialization Processes University of Rome, Rome, Italy

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.13133/2724-2943/18645

Keywords:

Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), Executive Functions, preschool children, Inhibitory Control, set-shifting, Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)

Abstract

Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) presents a significant challenge, affecting language development and other cognitive areas such as motor coordination and executive functions (EF). This study examined the relationship between executive functions (working memory, inhibition, and cognitive flexibility) and motor skills in a sample of 22 preschool children with DLD and a control group of 22 typically developing peers. Using age-appropriate neuropsychological assessments, the results showed that children with DLD exhibit significant deficits in inhibition and cognitive flexibility compared to typically developing peers. Additionally, correlations emerged between cognitive flexibility deficits and lower motor and planning abilities. These findings suggest a deep connection between the development of language, motor skills, and executive functions, highlighting the importance of early interventions to improve outcomes for children with DLD.

Additional Files

Published

2025-07-09

How to Cite

Stievano, P., Apicerni, D., Melogno, S., Trimarco, B., Valeri, G., & Scalisi, T. G. (2025). Developmental Language Disorder and Developmental Neuropsychology: An Exploration of Executive Functions and Motor Coordination in Preschoolers. Psychology Hub, 42(2), 57–68. https://doi.org/10.13133/2724-2943/18645

Issue

Vol. 42 No. 2 (2025)

Section

Research Note

License

Copyright (c) 2025 Psychology Hub

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