Speech is how we say sounds and words.
People with speech problems may:
- not say sounds clearly
- have a hoarse or raspy voice
- repeat sounds or pause when speaking, called stuttering
Language is the words we use to share ideas and get what we want.
A person with a language disorder may have problems:
- understanding
- talking
- reading
- writing
Speech and language disorders encompass a range of difficulties with communication, affecting both the production and understanding of speech and language.
These disorders can manifest in various ways, impacting articulation, fluency, voice, and the ability to use language effectively.
Types of Speech Disorders:
- Articulation Disorders: Difficulty producing speech sounds correctly, leading to mispronunciations.
- Phonological Disorders: Difficulty understanding and using the sound system of a language.
- Fluency Disorders: Interruptions in the flow of speech, such as stuttering.
- Voice Disorders: Abnormalities in vocal quality, pitch, loudness, or resonance.
- Apraxia of Speech: Difficulty coordinating the movements for speech.
- Dysarthria: Weakness or paralysis of the muscles used for speech.
- Selective Mutism: A psychiatric disorder where a person consistently fails to speak in specific social situations.
Types of Language Disorders:
- Receptive Language Disorders: Difficulty understanding language, including following directions, understanding what is said, and understanding grammar.
- Expressive Language Disorders: Difficulty using language to express oneself, including finding the right words, forming sentences, and using grammar.
- Developmental Language Disorder (DLD): A language disorder that is not associated with other conditions and affects the acquisition and use of language.
- Aphasia: A language disorder caused by brain damage, typically after a stroke or TBI, affecting speaking, understanding, reading, and writing.
