Speech or voice disorders

Speech disorders include several speech-related problems that result in difficulties with oral communication. For example:

• dysfluencies or rhythm disorders in which people often repeat sounds, words or phrases, with stuttering potentially being one of the most serious
• articulation difficulties where sounds are made either incorrectly or inappropriately.

Voice disorders can involve abnormalities in the quality, pitch, and loudness of the sound. This can include complete loss of speech or no sound production. With voice disorders, the way the vocal cords and speech mechanism work to produce ‘voice’ (for example, ‘aahhh’) is essentially impaired (Healthline 2008; Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Heath Service 2007).

Links to specific types of speech or voice disorders:

• Complete loss of speech
• Stuttering

The Speech Pathology Australia web site may provide further information (Link will open in a new window):

• Speech Pathology Australia

References:

Healthline 2008, Speech Disorders, Healthline, San Francisco, viewed 13 February 2009, http://www.healthline.com/adamcontent/speech-disorders

Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Heath Service 2007, What is Voice Disorder, Northern Sydney Health, Sydney, viewed 14 April 2007, www.nsh.nsw.gov.au/hornsby/FactSheets

Links to specific types of speech or voice disorders