Speech & Language Disorders
Speech and language disorders affect a person's ability to communicate effectively. Understanding these conditions builds empathy and helps us adapt our communication style to be more inclusive.
Characterized by repetitions (I-I-I want), prolongations (sssssun), or blocks (silent pauses). Affects about 1% of adults worldwide. Caused by a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors. Tips for communicating with someone who stammers: maintain natural eye contact, don't finish their sentences, and be patient.
A fluency disorder characterized by rapid, irregular speech rate, excessive disfluencies, and poor organization. The speaker may be unaware of their speech clarity issues. Encourage the speaker to slow down, and ask clarifying questions gently.
A persistent difficulty understanding and/or using language that affects 7% of children. It's not caused by hearing loss, intellectual disability, or autism. Use clear, simple sentences, give extra processing time, and use visual supports.
A motor speech disorder caused by weakness or paralysis of speech muscles (lips, tongue, vocal cords). Often results from stroke, Parkinson's, or ALS. The person knows what they want to say but cannot articulate clearly. Listen patiently, ask yes/no questions, and confirm understanding.
Loss of language ability due to brain damage (typically stroke). May affect speaking, understanding, reading, or writing. Use short sentences, give time to respond, use gestures and writing, and treat the person as a competent adult.