Children with DVD are unable to sequence speech sounds. They may omit sounds in sequences of 2 or 3 or more. They may mix the order of sounds in a given sequence. They may distort sounds in a given sequence. Because of these sequencing and memory weaknesses, errors increase as word length increases and single words are clearer than conversation.
Errors vary with the complexity of the speech sounds involved.
Errors are inconsistent. Children with DVD are not typically deaf nor even moderately hearing impaired. Their inability to produce speech sounds results from coordination problems, not hearing or listening problems. Children with DVD are not typically emotionally disturbed, although behavioral outbursts are common reactions to the frustration the child feelsin being unable to effectively communicate.