What is global aphasia characterized by?

Global aphasia is characterized by a significant impairment in both expressive and receptive language abilities. Individuals with this condition have profound difficulties in speaking and understanding spoken and written language, which encompasses the full spectrum of communication. This condition often results from extensive damage to the areas of the brain responsible for language processing, typically as a result of a stroke or traumatic brain injury.

The ability to express oneself verbally and comprehend language, including the ability to follow conversations or read text, is markedly reduced. This condition severely disrupts the individual's capacity to communicate, making it one of the most debilitating forms of aphasia.

While the other options touch on aspects of language and cognitive function, they do not encompass the full extent of the challenges presented by global aphasia. The specific loss of both ability to express and understand language is what distinguishes global aphasia from other forms of aphasia, making this answer the most accurate representation of the condition.