Which developmental theory states that language acquisition results from intellectual maturation?

The cognitive approach to language acquisition emphasizes the role of cognitive development in learning language. This theory suggests that as children’s cognitive abilities mature, they are better equipped to understand and produce language. It posits that language acquisition is closely linked to general cognitive development, wherein children’s increasing capacity for abstract thinking, memory, and problem-solving contributes to their ability to gather and use language effectively.

In contrast, the linguistic approach focuses more on the innate structures of language and less on the role of cognitive development. The behaviorist approach emphasizes the role of environmental stimuli and reinforcement in language learning rather than cognitive maturation. Lastly, the social interactionist approach highlights the importance of social interaction and communication in language development, although it does not directly tie language acquisition to intellectual maturation as strongly as the cognitive approach does.