Praxis Speech-Language Pathology (5331) Form 1 Practice Test – Prep & Study Guide

Clients with flaccid dysarthria typically exhibit weakness of the oromotor mechanisms, which includes the muscles used for speech production. This weakness results from lower motor neuron damage that can manifest as reduced muscle tone (flaccidity) affecting the lips, tongue, and soft palate. Consequently, this leads to difficulties in articulation, breath support, and resonance, which directly impacts the intelligibility of speech.

Weakness can result in slurred or imprecise speech, monotonic volume, and challenges with nasal resonance due to inadequate closure of the velopharyngeal port. Recognizing weakness as a primary characteristic is crucial for diagnosing and treating flaccid dysarthria effectively, as it informs the type of speech therapy strategies that may help improve communication abilities.