Which of the following can be a cause of Speech or Language Impairment (SLI)?

Hearing loss is a significant cause of Speech or Language Impairment (SLI) because it directly affects an individual's ability to hear sounds and phonemes necessary for speech development. When a child cannot hear clearly, they may struggle to articulate words correctly, understand language, or express themselves effectively. This impairment can lead to delays in language acquisition, reduced vocabulary, and difficulties in using language in social contexts. Addressing hearing loss early with appropriate interventions can help mitigate these challenges and support better speech and language outcomes.

In contrast, optimal nutrition, mental alertness, and high academic performance do not inherently cause speech or language impairments; rather, they tend to support healthy cognitive and language development. Nutritional deficiencies might contribute to broader developmental issues, but optimal nutrition itself is not a cause of SLI. Similarly, mental alertness and academic performance relate more to an individual's overall cognitive abilities rather than directly to their speech or language skills.