Communication Disabilities Sourcebook, 2nd Edition

Any condition that affects one’s ability to detect, receive, send, process, or comprehend various aspects of language—both verbal and nonverbal—may lead to communication disabilities. These conditions can impair a person’s hearing, voice, speech, language, cognition, and learning abilities. In most cases, the causes of such impairments are unknown. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), about 5 percent of children in first grade have noticeable speech disorders. It is important to identify people with communication disorders and address the issue at the right time in the right way. If not, patients may experience additional issues such as stress, depression, and isolation.

Communication Disabilities Sourcebook, Second Edition explains what voice, speech, and language are, and how communication problems may develop in a person. Various types of communication disabilities and their effects on the personal, social, and economic well-being of a person are discussed. It offers information about recovery models and rehabilitation techniques along with the rights and benefits of people with communication disabilities. The book concludes with a directory of resources for additional help and information.

Part 1: Understanding Communication Disorders begins with an explanation of voice, speech, and language and describes how communication disorders may develop in a person. It discusses various kinds of communication disorders, such as hearing disorders, language disorders, apraxia, speech disorders, and autism spectrum disorder. It also offers statistical data about voice, speech, and language disorders in the United States.

Part 2: Promoting Inclusivity and Understanding explains how communication disabilities can affect a person’s life and cause several lifestyle issues. Social stigma and media portrayal of communication disorders are discussed in detail. It also covers employment options available for people with communication disabilities.

Part 3: Recovery, Rehabilitation, and Caregiving focuses on the medical and social approaches to addressing communication disorders, including rehabilitation medicine, speech pathology, peer support, and other methods. It offers tips for taking care of a person with communication disabilities and provides insights into recent technological developments in treating such disabilities.

Part 4: Protections, Rights, and Benefits explains how people with communication disabilities can avail themselves of benefits through the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). It highlights the rights of students and employees with communication disabilities and provides information about the disability rights movement and the neurodiversity movement.

Part 5: Additional Resources lists the government and private organizations that provide help and support for people with communication disabilities.