Which of the following best describes functional communication disorders?

Functional communication disorders are characterized by communication difficulties that arise without a detectable anatomical or physiological cause. This means that while individuals may struggle with speaking, understanding, or using language appropriately, there is no identifiable medical issue, such as a structural anomaly or neurological disorder, that accounts for these challenges. This lack of a physical basis distinguishes functional communication disorders from other types where a specific cause is evident, such as congenital disorders or those associated with hearing loss.

The other descriptions do not accurately capture the essence of functional communication disorders. For instance, disorders that are present at birth or involve hearing loss typically have identifiable physical or medical origins. Similarly, problems with a known physical cause also do not fall under the category of functional communication disorders, as these are specifically defined by the absence of such known causes.