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Speech sound disorders are difficulties perceiving, producing, or representing speech sounds. These difficulties can appear as problems with articulation (making sounds) or phonological processes (sound patterns). It's not uncommon for children to experience speech sound disorders during their developmental years. Still, they can also affect adults who have untreated challenges from childhood or after neurological events or injuries.

Though some children outgrow speech sound disorders as they develop and gain more exposure to language, some individuals may require intervention to overcome their speech challenges. These difficulties can manifest in different ways, but they typically include:

• substituting one sound for another 

• omitting sounds

• adding extra sounds

• distorting sounds. 

These types of errors can make it challenging for others to understand what they are saying.

The cause of speech sound disorders is not always known. However, hearing loss, neurological disorders, developmental disorders (like autism), genetic syndromes, and limited exposure to language can cause speech sound disorders. Early identification and intervention are crucial for improving speech and language skills. Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are critical in diagnosing and treating these disorders.

Therapy may involve exercises to increase awareness of sounds, practice in making sounds, and strategies to improve sound production. Intervention is tailored to the individual's needs and focuses on making speech more understandable and effective for communication.

With the proper support, most individuals with speech sound disorders can improve their speech and communication skills, enhancing their ability to express themselves and engage with others.