Developmental language disorders in children are often associated with psychiatric disorders. Of 71 children, who were hospitalized in a childpsychiatric clinic, 60% showed in some aspects a delay in language development. Several hypotheses derived from the literature are being discussed in relation to the ways developmental language disorders can lead to psychiatric disorders in children. Some signals are mentioned that may focus the attention of the childpsychiatrist on the possible presence of a developmental language disorder. In conclusion it is pointed out how developmental language disorders can complicate childpsychiatric diagnosis and treatment.