What do articulation disorders primarily affect?

Articulation disorders primarily affect the physical production of speech sounds. These disorders arise when an individual has difficulty pronouncing sounds correctly or fluently, which can result in unclear speech or mispronunciation. This aspect of speech focuses on how the speech organs, such as the tongue, lips, and palate, work together to produce specific sounds.

When individuals struggle with articulation, it can lead to challenges in clear communication, which may impact their ability to express themselves effectively. However, their ability to understand spoken language, engage in social interactions, or comprehend reading material typically remains intact. Thus, the primary focus of articulation disorders is the physical aspect of speech production rather than cognitive or social abilities.