Questionnaire survey on the conceptual framework, optimal evaluation, and support measures for children's language disorders in Japan using the Delphi method

OBJECTIVES: To compile the opinions of native Japanese speakers on the conceptual framework, optimal evaluation, and support measures for children with language disorders to devise materials on which a consensus can be formed. DESIGN: A quantitative descriptive study using the Delphi method. SETTING: Using the Delphi method, 43 clinicians with at least 15 years of experience working professionally with children's language disorders in Japan were surveyed three times via a web‐based questionnaire. Thirty‐nine items that were carefully selected by the working group were surveyed, and the agreement level was set to ≥80%. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: We investigated the following aspects related to developmental language disorder (DLD) among Japanese children: definition, core symptoms, evaluation of core symptoms, relationship with a second language, relationship with other related disorders, support systems, and information availability. RESULTS: Overall, 43 qualified panel members were included in this study. Among the 39 items in the questionnaire, a high level of consensus (≥80%) from the responses of the participants was achieved for five items in Round 1, whereas no consensus (<50%) was achieved for seven items. After revising and integrating the questionnaires into 22 items, we conducted Rounds 2 and 3 and obtained high and medium levels of agreement in 20 items on disease concept, core symptoms, coexisting disorders, and manner of support of DLD in children. CONCLUSION: Our results clarify the previously ambiguous image of DLD in Japan. Information‐sharing strategies that connect professionals, patients, their families, and community members are required in the future. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 5