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Prerequisites for language development include genetic factors, an intact central nervous system, adequate psychological care, specific linguistic stimulation, and cognitive-developmental structures. Deficits in any of these areas may lead to impairment in language development and are sometimes etiologically specific. A dismaturation between nonlinguistic representation and symbolic language development may also occur. "Affective conservation" in particular may be
delayed, leading to anxiety. Misunderstanding may result from a failure to recognize the differential rates of development of specific cognitive functions, including affective conservation and language. Certain peculiarities in language usage and specific speech patterns reflect neurotic conflicts. Maturation of language development, associated with maturation of cognitive development, enables the child to deal with anxiety more effectively than previously when the child's ability to comprehend and conceptualize experiences was still limited. Attention to cognitive functions, particularly symbolic language development, may enhance treatment.