Q&A

Subject: Speech articulation

From: Brian

Hi, I'm looking for books and tools on speech articulation. I'm also looking for information on if people with overbites have more trouble with their S's than other people. I also know somebody with a mumbling problem which sounds more like a echo or a physical problem. Can he be helped? Thank You, Brian

Dear Brian,
For information on speech articulation problems, I have been most impressed with the collections available through the public library system. You might also ask the librarian if the system contains a "special needs section." In addition to books in general circulation, the Montgomery County Maryland Library system has a whole library devoted to special needs, and the parents of children with speech and hearing problems can find books on these problems there.

Checking the library of your local college would also be a good idea. There you should also find reference to problems pronouncing /s/ called "lisping". You are correct that people with all sorts of dental problems have difficulty with this sound because it requires directing the air stream through closed front teeth, difficult to do with an overbite. Speech pathologists are the ones to consult regarding "mumbling". You will find them in the yellow pages of your phone book. There is often a speech clinic associated with colleges offering training in this field. Other speech pathologists work in health departments, hospitals and in private practice. Helping people speak more clearly is their job focus.

Solveig