What is the primary purpose of using minimal word pairs in phonological treatment?

The primary purpose of using minimal word pairs in phonological treatment is to build awareness of the phonetic realizations of phonological contrasts. Minimal pairs are pairs of words that differ by only one phoneme, such as "pat" and "bat." By contrasting these pairs, the child becomes more aware of how small changes in sound can lead to different meanings, enhancing their ability to distinguish and produce targeted sounds more accurately. This awareness is crucial for children with phonological processing difficulties, as it helps them understand the significance of phonetic distinctions in language.

The focus is on developing the ability to perceive and produce the specific sounds correctly, which is fundamental in treating speech sound disorders. This method not only aids in sound production but also emphasizes the differences in meaning that these sounds can create, thereby fostering effective communication.