Stuttering is a speech disorder that disrupts the natural flow of speech, marked by repeating, pausing, or prolonging certain sounds and syllables. Individuals who stutter know what they want to say; the challenge lies in producing the physical sound.
In the DSM-5 , stuttering is called Child-Onset Fluency Disorder.
Stuttering, also called stammering, emerges in childhood . The condition typically begins between 2 and 6 years old, but three-quarters of children who stutter eventually outgrow the condition. Stuttering may influence relationships, academic goals , and professional pursuits, but there are effective strategies to address the condition or embrace it.
Around 70 million people worldwide stutter, representing 1 percent of the global population. In the United States, about 3 million people stutter , and boys are two to three times more likely to stutter than are girls. Stuttering is most common in young children, but 75 percent eventually outgrow the condition, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders.
Key Takeaways
- Stuttering affects mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing
- Understanding stuttering is the first step toward managing it
- Evidence-based approaches can significantly improve outcomes
- Building daily habits is more effective than one-time interventions
Living with a Stutter
People who stutter may struggle with embarrassment , frustration, or self-esteem at times. Yet speech therapy can help with speech fluency and talk therapy can address those difficult emotions. Many who stutter come to feel resilient and empowered, and some refrain from treating the condition altogether, choosing to embrace their stutter instead.
People often work with a speech therapist to alleviate stuttering. Adults who stutter can speak more slowly, use breathing exercises to relax, and address the accompanying anxiety. Techniques for parents of children who stutter include providing plenty of time to talk in a relaxed environment, not rushing or interrupting, and speaking more slowly themselves.
No medications are currently approved to treat stuttering, but drugs for epilepsy, anxiety, and depression may be helpful, although they are not without side effects. An electronic device, similar to a hearing aid, can also help people who stutter to speak more fluently.
Stuttering can vary widely by context. For example, stuttering is often exacerbated during public speaking but disappears while singing or reading. A difficult cycle underlying the condition is that stuttering can lead to anxiety while speaking, which in turn can lead to more stuttering—especially in pressured situations such as a school presentation or job interview.
Absolutely. Many people who stutter occupy corporate or political leadership positions, such as President-Elect Joe Biden, CEO Jack Welch, actress Emily Blunt, and news anchor Byron Pitts. People who stutter often report that the challenge of stuttering has instilled a sense of insight, grit, and resilience that allows them to achieve their personal and professional goals.
Some people in the stuttering community have created and now counsel a movement toward self-acceptance. They believe it’s better to learn to accept their stutter rather than strive to overcome it. For many who have explored various therapies and programs, it may be better to release the constant pressure of trying to achieve fluency and replace feelings of guilt and shame with acceptance and solidarity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is stuttering?
Stuttering is a speech disorder that disrupts the natural flow of speech, marked by repeating, pausing, or prolonging certain sounds and syllables. Individuals who stutter know what they want to say; the challenge lies in producing the physical sound.
Is stuttering a serious condition?
Stuttering exists on a spectrum. While mild forms are a normal part of life, persistent or severe stuttering can significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life. It's important to seek professional support if stuttering is interfering with work, relationships, or wellbeing.
Learn More
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