A Descriptive Case Study of Eleven Children With Speech Difficulties in Attendance at Bronx House Day Nursery During the Summer of 1949

Background of the Study. The legacy of speech has been regarded by many as the most human and universal tool that mankind has in its possession. In fact, good speech is a necessary prerequisite to independence and the total security of the individual. Yet the ability to vocalize is all too frequently taken for granted. Any threat to the speech faculty results in a serious challenge. It would appear that some of the interests of our society have had a tendency to concentrate more upon the more apparent handicaps of mankind. Many speech defectives had to meet their daily needs in a hostile or apathetic setting. Sometimes they encountered the ridicule and derision of neighbors. Even comedians have capitalized on speech impediments as a sure way of arousing laughter from the audience. These jibes are enjoyed even by individuals who pride themselves on their kindness and charity