What are common errors associated with apraxia of speech (AOS)?

In the context of apraxia of speech (AOS), a common characteristic is the presence of sound distortions and difficulties with initiating speech. Individuals with AOS often struggle to plan the precise movements required for speech, resulting in the incorrect production of sounds (distortions) and difficulty beginning words or phrases (initiation difficulties). This challenge is rooted in the motor planning and programming aspects of speech production rather than in the musculature itself, which distinguishes it from other speech disorders.

The inability to initiate speech can make it appear as though the person is hesitant or has reduced speech output, while sound distortions manifest as altered pronunciation or inconsistent articulation of phonemes. These features highlight the unique nature of AOS, focusing on the cognitive and neurological factors affecting speech planning, rather than the physical aspects of speech production.