"An Evaluation of Semantic Memory and Narrative Skills among Children with Down Syndrome"

Abstract

Memory is a fundamental higher-order cognitive process that underpins various mental functions, particularly language. Among its types, semantic memory represents the long-term storage of knowledge related to words, meanings, concepts, and linguistic rules, which are continuously retrieved and used during communication. Impairments in this system may significantly affect language production and comprehension, especially among children with intellectual disabilities such as Down syndrome.

 The present study aims to investigate the level of semantic memory and narrative ability in a group of children with Down syndrome. To achieve this objective, a descriptive approach was adopted. The study sample consisted of 13 children with intellectual disabilities (both males and females), selected through a purposive sampling method.

Two main assessment tools were used: the Semantic Memory Test developed by Amel Kacemi (2014), which evaluates processes of encoding, organization, and retrieval; and the Storytelling Assessment Test (“The Stone on the Road”) developed by Veneziano (2010), which measures narrative coherence, sequencing, and interpretative abilities.

The results revealed that the participants exhibited a limited level of semantic memory, reflected in difficulties in categorization, lexical retrieval, and semantic organization. In addition, the findings showed a low level of narrative ability, characterized by weak event sequencing, poor coherence, and limited use of linguistic structures.

These findings suggest a strong relationship between semantic memory functioning and narrative performance, emphasizing the impact of cognitive deficits on language abilities in children with Down syndrome.