Speech Sound Disorder: Types, Causes, and Treatment

Speech sound disorders are difficulties in learning, articulating, or using the sounds and sound patterns of a language. Children with speech sound disorders may experience challenges with reading and writing, which can affect their academic performance.

Symptoms

• Stuttering
• Removing or adding a sound in a word
• Replacing sounds with unsuitable alternatives
• Difficulty pronouncing the same sound in different words
• Repeating sounds or words
• Lengthening words
• Pauses while speaking
• Tension when producing sounds
• Head jerks or blinking during speech
• Shame or embarrassment while speaking
• Changes in voice pitch
• Raspiness
• Running out of breath while speaking

Diagnosis

A speech-language pathologist can diagnose speech sound disorders. The diagnosis is based on the DSM-5 criteria, which require that:

• The child experiences persistent difficulty with sound production, which affects communication and speech comprehension.
• Symptoms appear early during the child's developmental stages.
• The disorder limits communication and affects social interactions, academic achievements, and job performance.
• The disorder is not caused by other conditions like a congenital disorder or an acquired condition like hearing loss.

Causes

• Gender (male children are more likely to develop a speech sound disorder)
• Family history
• Socioeconomics
• Pre- and post-natal challenges
• Disabilities
• Physical challenges
• Brain damage

Types

• Disfluency: Interruptions while speaking, such as stuttering.
• Articulation Disorder: Inability to properly produce sounds due to inexact placement, speed, pressure, or movement from the lips, tongue, or throat.
• Phonological Disorder: Inability to make the speech sounds expected at their age.
• Voice Disorder: Raspy voice, voice breaks, change in pitch, excessively loud or soft voice.
• Apraxia: Lack of proper motor skills for sound production.

Treatment

• Speech therapy
• Oral motor exercises
• Nonspeech oral exercises
• Support groups

Support

Parents of children with speech sound disorders may find support groups helpful for information and assistance with the condition.

A Word From Verywell

The differences caused by speech sound disorders can be managed with the right care and supervision. Speaking to a speech therapist and showing love and support to children with speech disorders can be crucial first steps in overcoming these conditions.