Clinical linguistics in Mexico, why and what for?

Abstract

This article introduces a historic perspective about the development of Clinical Linguistics (CL) in Mexico. First, it establishes a distinction between psycholinguistics, neurolinguistics, and CL, because these three subfields tend to be used indistinctly. It continues with a historic review about researches and researchers that contributed to set the basis of CL, starting in the 1970s. Also, it highlights the main difficulties facing CL that have restricted its development. Finally, it stresses the need to consolidate this line of research as part of Applied Linguistics, especially because CL can contribute to optimize the clinical practice of speech therapists and, consequently, improve the quality of life of patients with speech disorders and their relatives.