What is a speech disorder, and how does it affect cognitive development?

This assignment discusses the impact of speech disorders on cognitive development. It is widely accepted that communication difficulties can have negative consequences for an individual's social, emotional and cognitive development (Herbison & Cantwell, 1995). A speech disorder is defined as a difficulty in producing the sounds of speech, or using the spoken word in a way that people can understand (ASHA, 2016). Speech disorders can be either acquired or developmental. Acquired speech disorders can be caused by a traumatic brain injury, stroke, or other neurological conditions. Developmental speech disorders are those that are present from birth or develop over time. Early intervention is essential for children with speech disorders, as research has shown that these difficulties can lead to problems with reading, writing and overall academic achievement (Bos & Leonhardt, 2005; Loeb & Feagans, 2000). untreated speech disorders can also lead to social and emotional difficulties, such as low self-esteem and anxiety (Herbison & Cantwell, 1995).

There are a variety of different types of speech disorders, which can be categorized based on the type of difficulty that is present. Articulation disorders are characterized by problems with making specific sounds, and can make it difficult for others to understand what is being said. Fluency disorders involve disruptions in the flow of speech, such as stuttering. Voice disorders involve issues with pitch, volume or quality of the voice. Receptive language disorders involve difficulties understanding spoken language, while expressive language disorders involve difficulties using spoken language.

Speech disorders can have a significant impact on cognitive development. Research has shown that children with speech disorders are at risk for academic difficulties, including problems with reading, writing and overall achievement (Bos & Leonhardt, 2005; Loeb & Feagans, 2000). These difficulties can persist into adulthood if the speech disorder is not treated effectively. In addition to academic difficulties, children with speech disorders may also experience social and emotional difficulties, such as low self-esteem and anxiety (Herbison & Cantwell, 1995). Early intervention is essential for children with speech disorders, as it can help to prevent these negative consequences.