Stuttering

Understanding the Pause: What Stuttering Means

Stuttering (also called stammering) is a speech disorder where the normal flow of speech is interrupted by repetitions(e.g., “b-b-boy”), prolongations (stretching a sound, like “sssssun”), or blocks (a pause or getting “stuck” on a word).
It can affect both children and adults and varies greatly in severity

Classification of Stuttering:

Developmental Stuttering:

  • The most common type.
  • Begins in early childhood (typically between ages 2–7).
  • Often linked to speech and language development.

Psychogenic Stuttering:

  • Rare; associated with emotional trauma or psychological disorders.
  • Speech disruptions may appear suddenly during periods of extreme stress.

Neurogenic Stuttering:

  • Caused by brain injury, stroke, or neurological diseases.
  • Speech disruptions occur without the anxiety typically associated with developmental stuttering.

How Therapy Helps

For Children:

  • Early speech therapy focuses on easing tension around speaking, improving fluency, and building confidence.
  • Techniques include easy onset speech, stretchy speech, and parent-child interaction therapy.

For Adults:

  • Therapy often focuses on fluency techniques, desensitization to speaking situations, and cognitive-behavioral strategies to manage anxiety related to speaking.
  • In some cases, electronic devices that provide feedback are also used.

Helping Your Child Through Stuttering: Tips for Parents & Caregivers

Listen Patiently Without Interrupting

Allow your child to finish their sentences without rushing or correcting them mid-speech. Maintain natural eye contact.

Create a Relaxed Talking Environment

Slow down your own speech. Use pauses and gentle phrasing to model calm communication.

Encourage, Don't Pressure

Instead of telling your child to "slow down" or "start again," focus on what they are saying rather than how they are saying it.

Watch for Signs of Struggle

If stuttering persists beyond a few months, or if your child seems frustrated or anxious while speaking, consult a speech-language pathologist early.

Overcoming Stuttering as an Adult: Real Advice, Real Support

Practice Fluency Techniques Regularly

Techniques such as prolonged speech, easy onset, and breath control can help manage moments of stuttering.

Address Speaking Anxiety

Work with a therapist to reduce fear and anxiety about speaking situations, including public speaking or telephone conversations.

Join Support Groups

Groups like the National Stuttering Association offer emotional support and valuable resources for adults who stutter.

What Research Says

  • Early intervention matters:
    Studies show that children who receive speech therapy before age 6 have a higher chance of achieving natural fluency (Yairi & Ambrose, 2013).
  • Stuttering is neurological, not a habit:
    Brain imaging studies confirm that stuttering involves differences in brain activity, particularly in speech production areas (Chang et al., 2018).
  • Adults benefit from therapy too:
    Behavioral therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) combined with fluency shaping techniques, significantly improve speech fluency and reduce emotional distress (Craig et al., 2003).

What You’ve Been Wondering About Stuttering

If stuttering lasts more than 6 months, becomes more frequent, or your child seems distressed while speaking, consult a speech-language therapist.

Yes, for some children, stuttering can resolve naturally, especially if it begins before age 5. However, early evaluation helps identify children who may need support.

No. Nervousness can exacerbate stuttering, but it is not the cause. Stuttering has neurological and genetic components.

Yes! Many adults achieve better fluency and speaking confidence through speech therapy, techniques practice, and emotional support.

Speech therapy focuses on fluency shaping, stuttering modification, and communication strategies. Psychological counseling may be included if anxiety is a significant factor.