How do delays in expressive language development likely affect young children's behavior?

Delays in expressive language development can significantly impact a child's behavior due to the challenges they encounter when trying to communicate their needs, thoughts, and feelings. When children struggle to express themselves verbally, it can lead to feelings of frustration, as they may feel misunderstood or unable to convey their desires effectively. This frustration often manifests in acting-out behaviors, such as tantrums or aggression, as children seek alternative ways to express their emotions or to get attention. Additionally, these behaviors can escalate when children feel overwhelmed by their inability to communicate, further contributing to a cycle of frustration and inappropriate behaviors. Therefore, the link between language delays and acting-out behaviors is a critical aspect to understand in supporting young children’s emotional and behavioral development.