Which characteristic is commonly associated with language deficits in individuals with Right Hemisphere Damage (RHD)?

Individuals with Right Hemisphere Damage (RHD) commonly exhibit deficits in prosody, which refers to the rhythm, stress, and intonation of speech. Prosody plays a critical role in conveying emotional nuances and attitudes during communication. Those with RHD may have difficulties interpreting or producing the affective components of language, leading to a monotone voice or an inability to recognize emotional cues in speech.

This impairment can affect their ability to communicate effectively, as prosodic features are essential for understanding context and the emotional weight of conversations. While other aspects of language, like syntax, phonology, and semantics, can be impacted by various types of brain injuries, the unique challenges faced by individuals with RHD in relation to prosody specifically highlight a core characteristic of their language deficits.