Giving Voice - Stammer and Fluency Problems

Stammering, also known as stuttering, is a speech disorder characterised by interruptions in the flow of speech, such as repetitions, prolongations, or blocks of sounds, syllables, words, or phrases.

The exact cause of stammering is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, neurological, environmental, and developmental factors.

There is no outright cure for stammering, but various therapies and interventions can help manage and reduce the severity of the condition. Speech and language therapy is often very effective.

Stammering usually starts between the ages of 2 and 5 years old, during the period when children are developing their speech and language skills.

Stammering can run in families, suggesting a genetic component to the disorder. However, not everyone with a family history of stammering will develop the condition.

Approximately 1% of the UK population, or around 670,000 people, are affected by stammering. It is more common in males than females.

Common strategies include slow and relaxed speech, breathing techniques, and practicing speech in non-stressful environments. Working with a speech and language therapist is highly recommended.

No, stammering does not affect a person's intelligence. It is solely a speech disorder and has no impact on cognitive abilities.

Yes, adults who stammer can benefit from speech therapy. While early intervention is ideal, speech therapy can be effective at any age.

Stammering can lead to anxiety, especially in social situations. Additionally, anxiety can exacerbate stammering, creating a cycle that can be challenging to break.

Teachers can support students who stammer by being patient, listening without interrupting, and providing a safe, supportive environment for them to express themselves without fear of judgement.

If your child is starting to stammer, seek advice from a speech and language therapist as early intervention can be very beneficial. Be supportive and patient, and avoid putting pressure on them to speak perfectly.

Yes, there are several support groups and organisations in the UK, such as the British Stammering Association, which offer resources and support for individuals who stammer and their families.

Stammering can impact career opportunities, particularly in roles that require a lot of verbal communication. However, many successful professionals who stammer have found effective ways to manage their speech in the workplace.

Parents play a crucial role in helping a child who stammers by being patient, providing a supportive and non-judgmental environment, and seeking professional guidance from speech and language therapists.