Cognition | Munroe-Meyer Institute | University of Nebraska Medical Center

Warren G. Sanger Human Genetics Laboratory

What are cognitive-communication disorders?

A cognitive-communication disorder is a broad term to describe any aspect of communication that is affected by disruption of thinking. Communication may be verbal or nonverbal and includes listening, speaking, gesturing, reading and writing in all domains of language.

Speech language pathology cognition therapy

Cognition includes processes such as:

attention
perception
memory
organization
executive function skills (e.g., initiating, planning, revising, etc.)

Individuals with cognitive-communication difficulties often struggle with:

behavioral self-regulation
social interactions
activities of daily living
learning and academic performance
work performance

Given the high incidence and prevalence of cognitive-communication disorders and their potentially serious consequences—including negative impacts on social, academic and vocational success—appropriate preventive efforts, assessment, diagnosis and management are critical.

Warren G. Sanger Human Genetics Laboratory