Knowledge and Awareness of Early Speech and Language Delays Among University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Early speech and language delays are among the most prevalent neurodevelopmental conditions in childhood and are associated with long-term academic, social, and psychosocial outcomes. Despite their clinical importance, public knowledge and awareness remain limited. This study aimed to examine university students’ knowledge and awareness of early speech and language delays and their associations with sociodemographic factors.

Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study included 505 undergraduate students recruited through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a researcher-developed questionnaire assessing sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, awareness, and attitudes. Content validity was established through expert review and pilot testing. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Mann–Whitney U test, Kruskal–Wallis H test, chi-square tests, and Spearman correlation. Effect sizes (r and η2) and 95% CI were reported.

Results: Most participants reported prior awareness of speech and language delay (94.3%, 95% CI: 92.3-96.3); however, knowledge levels were predominantly basic (46.9%, 95% CI: 42.6-51.2) or moderate (49.7%, 95% CI: 45.3-54.1), with only 3.4% (95% CI: 1.8-5.0) reporting advanced knowledge. While attitudes toward early intervention were generally positive, detailed knowledge of developmental milestones and risk factors was limited. Students who had received relevant training demonstrated significantly higher knowledge and awareness levels (P < .001).

Conclusion: Misconceptions were particularly evident regarding bilingual language development. Although awareness of early speech and language delays is relatively high among university students, it is not supported by sufficient depth of knowledge. This gap may delay early identification and referral. Integrating foundational content on speech and language development into university curricula may provide a cost-effective strategy to improve early detection and intervention outcomes.