6 Things I Wish People Knew About Stuttering
We’re nearing the end of Speech and Hearing Month, and so I wanted to share some knowledge about stuttering that I think it’s really important for those of us working with people who stutter (PWS) — such as counsellors, SLPs, and OTs — as well as family members and PWS themselves to be aware of. Please note that the following items refer specifically to developmental stuttering (stuttering with an onset in childhood), not other types of stuttering.
1.) There is no “cure” for stuttering.
During the early childhood years, sometimes developmental stuttering goes away on its own. However, after age 7, it is very likely that the person will continue to stutter. At this point, speech therapy focuses on how to approach and manage the stuttering.
2.) Stuttering is NOT caused by anxiety.
Researchers are still pinpointing the exact causes of developmental stuttering, but they have determined that genetics and brain differences play a significant role. Anxiety or stressful situations can increase frequency or severity of stuttering, but they do not cause it.
3.) Stuttering is not reflective of any particular personality trait.
People who stutter are not by nature more introverted, shy, or nervous. However, their experiences with stuttering may lead them to avoid speaking situations or feel anxious during them.
4.) Stuttering is consistently inconsistent.
Stuttering is unpredictable. Some days a person who stutters (PWS) may stutter more, and other days they may stutter less, and there may be no pattern to be found explaining why. That’s just the way stuttering is.
5.) People who stutter can be excellent communicators.
Fluency of speech does not equal good communication. Someone can be fluent and a very poor communicator, and someone can stutter and be a powerful speaker. Speech therapy can help develop communication skills that will enhance someone’s message whether they stutter or not.
6.) It’s okay to stutter.
Stuttering is a different way of speaking due to neurological differences. It’s not a “bad” thing to stutter. It’s not anyone’s “fault.” There is nothing wrong with stuttering. Your message is what’s important, not the way you say it.
Recommended websites to learn more about stuttering and access resources:
- Stuttering Therapy Resources: https://stutteringtherapyresources.com
- Space to Stutter: https://www.spacetostutter.org
- Canadian Stuttering Association: https://stutter.ca
- National Stuttering Association (US): https://www.westutter.org
- The Blank Center for Stuttering: https://blankcenterforstuttering.org
I’ve created a handout with these 6 things to know about stuttering, which I’m hoping will help people who stutter as well as teachers, counsellors, SLPs, parents, and anyone else who works with PWS.
If you’d like a free download of this handout, please enter your email below!