If you or a loved one struggles with stuttering, there are probably many questions that you may be pondering. You are not alone! Here are some answers to many frequently asked questions about stuttering:
What Is Stuttering?
Stuttering is a communication disorder in which the flow of speech is broken by repetitions, prolongations, or abnormal stoppages of sounds and syllables. Unusual facial and body movements may be associated with the effort to speak.
What Causes Stuttering?
There is no defined cause of stuttering, but there are factors that likely contribute to its development. These factors include genetics, child development, neurophysiology, and family dynamics. Approximately 60% of those who stutter have a family member who also stutters. Children with other speech and language problems or developmental delays are also more likely to stutter. In relation to neurophysiology, neurological research has shown that people who stutter process speech and language slightly different than those who do not stutter. Family dynamics such as high expectations and fast-paced lifestyles can contribute to stuttering as well.
How Many People Stutter?
Over 70 million people stutter worldwide, which is about 1% of the population. Over 3 million Americans in the United States stutter.
What is the Male to Female Ratio of Stuttering?
Stuttering affects four times as many males as females.
How Many Children Stutter?
Approximately 5% of children go through a period of stuttering that lasts 6 months or more, and three-quarters of those recover by late childhood. About 1% are left with long-term stuttering.
If My Child is Beginning to Stutter, Should I Wait or Seek Help?
If your child’s stuttering persists beyond three to six months or is particularly severe, you may want to seek help from a speech-language pathologist right away. It is best to seek ways that you, as a parent, can help as soon as possible.
Can Stuttering Be Treated?
There are numerous successful approaches for treating both children and adults.
Is There a Cure for Stuttering?
There are no instant cures, but therapy and electronic devices can help. A specialist in stuttering can help people of all ages make significant progress toward fluency.
SpeechEasy
To learn more about stuttering and how to cope with it, visit our website. Our team of licensed Speech-Language Pathologists can help you understand the stutter, and how to live with it. Interested in one of our Speech Easy devices? Learn more on our website and call today for an appointment!