Introduction to Communication Disorders: A Lifespan Perspective presents an informative overview of the fields of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology in an interesting and highly readable manner. This text provides a solid foundation for future study by providing many viewpoints for the introductory student, offering personal stories of people with communication disorders, and examining the field from a lifespan perspective. In addition, the best models of good practice and approaches for assessment and intervention are discussed based on the authors' own clinical experience.

Each chapter describes a specific disorder and related assessment and intervention methods. Each disorder is also illustrated by the personal story of an individual with that disorder. Reader interest and thought are stimulated by thought questions placed throughout each chapter and by margin notes that highlight important information. The suggested readings and Internet locations provided at the conclusion of each chapter provide additional avenues by which students can gain further knowledge.

Unlike any other text currently available, Introduction to Communication Disorders features an accompanying CD-ROM — a learning device and study tool — which presents many of the disorders students read about in sound and video format. In addition, self-study questions follow the outline of each chapter and highlight important information.