Warren was 7 and Javier was 15 when they were discovered by authorities. They had survived horrendous neglect by their parents. Both were kept isolated, and neither ever heard speech. What might one predict regarding the language-acquisition capabilities of Warren on the one hand and Javier on the other?
A) Both Warren and Javier may develop normal language capabilities.
B) Javier may successfully acquire language. Warren is unlikely to develop normal language capabilities.
C) Warren may successfully acquire language. Javier is unlikely to develop normal language capabilities.
D) Neither Warren nor Javier is unlikely ever to develop normal language capabilities.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Warren, being younger, has a better chance of acquiring language due to the critical period for language development, which typically ends around puberty. Javier, being older, is past this critical period, making it significantly harder for him to acquire language normally.

Warren Was 7 and Javier Was 15 When They Were