Applying Vygotskian Developmental Theory to Language Intervention

The developmental theory of L.S. Vygotsky is one that is particularly well suited to clinical application. Vygotsky viewed social interaction as essential for the development of individual functioning. His theory is thus especially relevant to language intervention, in which clinicians attempt to influence children’s development through interaction. In this article, we present key notions from Vygotsky’s developmental theory and applications of this theory to assessment. We then discuss applications to language intervention in clinical settings using examples from intervention with a child who has language impairments.