What does an articulation disorder affect?

An articulation disorder specifically impacts the way speech sounds are pronounced, which directly relates to how clearly and accurately sounds are articulated in spoken language. Individuals with articulation disorders may substitute, omit, distort, or add sounds when speaking, leading to difficulty in being understood by others. This can affect their overall communication but does not inherently influence their understanding of language or their ability to construct sentences or read fluently.

Understanding articulation disorders is crucial, especially in early childhood education, as it can affect social interactions and academic performance. Correct pronunciation is essential for effective communication, and early intervention can significantly benefit children with these disorders.