Which term describes the condition where both receptive and expressive language abilities are affected?

The term that describes the condition where both receptive and expressive language abilities are impaired is global aphasia. This condition results from significant damage to both the language areas of the brain, affecting an individual's ability to comprehend language (receptive) and produce language (expressive). Global aphasia often occurs after a stroke or a severe brain injury, leading to a profound impairment in communication skills.

In contrast, receptive aphasia primarily affects the ability to understand language, while expressive aphasia primarily affects the ability to speak or write. Mixed aphasia is not as commonly defined but can imply a combination of severe expressive and some level of receptive difficulties. Global aphasia is more encompassing than these individual types, highlighting the totality of the language deficits presented. This distinction is key to understanding the specific nature of the communication challenges faced by individuals with global aphasia.