Understanding The Basics Of Speech Impediments

By Ethel Harris


Speech impediments consist of several types, all of them hampering the ability of an individual to communicate or express himself. This can result in in shyness and difficulties in various social activities. Depending on the type of disorder, some are permanent while others can be corrected using different techniques.

The cause of some conditions are not known but some are usually attributed to the following causes. Some cannot produce a number of sounds because of the way their teeth, gums or mouth have been formed. Some cannot express themselves due to other disorders such as a learning disability. Others have difficulty because of a traumatic experience, stressful conditions and so on.

There are many types of this disorder. Stuttering is one of the more well known types. The stutterer may have to repeat the words or elongate a part of it. There are also those who have language problems where the person sets out to say something but it becomes disorganized in the process. This is called cluttering.

Some, due to the way their vocal system is formed will not be able to produce specific sounds. There are also individuals who exchange the sound of a consonant with other sounds, such as in lisping. Another problem involved the use of the speaking voice. There are those who cannot control volume and quality so that they sound different from others.

If the condition is not too serious, then it may be corrected by utilizing a series of exercises. The most important part of engaging in such exercises would be to determine what the disorder is. The correct identification of the disorder should lead to the appropriate techniques. One can try speaking out loud using books or following audio recordings. You can also try recording as you speak so you can determine where your weakness lies.

It can help if you speak the words out loud slowly at first. This should help make a difficult task easier. Try correcting your posture or talking more softly to see if this has any effect. Interaction can also help so you can be more comfortable with communicating. It can be better to prepare beforehand especially if you need to speak in public. There is however, no substitute for the help of a professional.

A consultation will generally mean that you will be providing the doctor with all information regarding your disorder. He will want to know when the condition was first noticed and if there are any situations that make the disorder more pronounced. If he cannot treat it, he may refer you to a specialist.

To identify, the doctor may observe you as you are talking. He may choose to make a recording for evaluation purposes. There are also some professionals who utilize computers for analysis. Once the condition is determined, treatment will be administered. The doctor may teach the patient how to produce a sound, show him how to breathe correctly, and introduce some exercises.

It can be frustrating for someone who has speech impediments to communicate. If you know someone who has this condition, then show courtesy and remember that this in no way affects their other abilities. Wait patiently for him to finish and ask for them to repeat what they said if you did not catch it the first time.




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