This book investigates the multifaceted nature of speech disorders and their impact on communication. Alan E. Harrison compiles recent global research on speech impediments, which disrupt normal speech patterns through issues like stuttering or lisps. The book explores known and unknown causes, ranging from neurological disorders and brain injury to physical impairments and vocal misuse. It specifically examines speech and voice disorders in Parkinson's Disease, genetic factors, stuttering therapy, prosody in autism, speech rehabilitation post-cancer, mutism, and dyslexia.

This compilation of research presents a comprehensive overview of current global studies on speech disorders. The focus on specific conditions and therapeutic approaches suggests a text aimed at professionals and researchers in the fields of speech pathology, neurology, and audiology. The inclusion of diverse topics indicates a broad scope, covering both the underlying causes and the practical applications of research in treating various speech impediments.