Speech, Language, and Communication Concepts Practice Test

Stuttering is characterized by interruptions in the normal flow of speech, which can manifest as repetitions of sounds, syllables, or words, prolonged sounds, or involuntary pauses known as blocks. This disorder affects the rhythm and fluency of speech, making it challenging for individuals to communicate smoothly.

In contrast, vocal abuse pertains to misuse of the vocal cords leading to voice quality issues, while auditory processing disorder involves difficulty in processing auditory information rather than speech production. Apraxia affects the planning and coordination of the movements needed for speech, leading to difficulties in saying words clearly but not specifically in the rhythm or flow of speech. Therefore, stuttering is the most accurate term to describe the difficulty with rhythm and flow in speech.