What is expressive aphasia characterized by?

Expressive aphasia is primarily characterized by difficulties in communicating through speech or writing. Individuals with this condition often know what they want to say, but they struggle to form the words or articulate their thoughts effectively. This can lead to frustration, as they may be able to understand language but cannot express themselves as they wish. The condition typically stems from damage to specific areas of the brain, particularly those involved in speech production, such as Broca's area.

The other conditions mentioned in the options do not align with the definition of expressive aphasia. For instance, trouble understanding spoken or written words relates more to receptive aphasia rather than expressive. Difficulty swallowing pertains to a different set of physiological or neurological issues altogether, and aggressively uncooperative behavior does not specifically represent any form of aphasia but could be indicative of a range of behavioral or psychological conditions. These distinctions underscore the unique challenges faced by individuals with expressive aphasia.