Northern Arizona University

COGNITIVE COMMUNICATION

ASHA (2005) defines cognitive-communication disorders as difficulty with any aspect of communication that is affected by disruption of cognition. Some examples of cognitive processes include: attention, memory, organization, problem solving/reasoning, and executive functions. Problems in these areas can affect verbal and nonverbal communication. For instance, speaking, listening, reading, writing, and pragmatic (social interaction) skills may be affected negatively. Problems with cognitive-communication can affect activities of daily living, and academic and work performance.

Cognitive-communication disorders can be caused by various etiologies. Some examples include: right hemisphere brain damage, traumatic brain injury, genetic disorders, lack of oxygen to the brain (anoxia), and brain tumor (ASHA, 2005). This type of disorder can occur in children and adults.

Web-links – Cogntive-Communication

www.asha.org
http://www.biausa.org/
http://www.biaaz.org/bia/index.aspx