An articulation disorder is a speech sound disorder that affects a person’s ability to produce specific speech sounds correctly. This condition is most common in children but can persist into adulthood if left untreated. Individuals with articulation disorders may substitute, omit, add, or distort certain sounds, making their speech difficult to understand.

Key points about articulation disorders:

1. Causes: Can be due to physical abnormalities, neurological issues, or developmental delays.
2. Common examples: Lisping, difficulty pronouncing ‘r’ or ‘th’ sounds.
3. Diagnosis: Usually made by a speech-language pathologist through comprehensive assessments.
4. Treatment: Often involves speech therapy to teach correct sound production and practice.
5. Impact: Can affect social interactions, academic performance, and self-esteem if not addressed.

Early intervention is crucial for better outcomes, as children can often overcome articulation disorders with proper therapy and support.