Fluency Disorders
Fluency Disorders can affect both children and adults. Common fluency disorders include stuttering and cluttering.
Every person who stutters is unique
Developing an understanding and acceptance of stuttering is key to therapy. Understanding the feelings and experiences of a person who stutters structures the therapy approach. During therapy the SLP and person who stutters identify strategies that help them say what they need to say.
Common Risk Factors
- Is the child is aware of stuttering?
- Has stuttering that lasts for more than 2-3 months?
- Is there a family history of stuttering?
- Is the parent concern about stuttering?
Will talking about stuttering cause my child to stutter more?
No. A long time ago it was thought that this was true. We now know that talking about stuttering with and in front of children does not lead to stuttering or more intense stuttering.
We now know that talking about stuttering and communication gives children an awareness of what they are working on and helps to reduce any feelings of shame or embarrassment. Acceptance and understanding of speech differences increases success in therapy.
Are stress or anxiety causing my child to stutter?
No. Stress, nervousness, and anxiety do NOT cause stuttering. Although it is possible that these emotional states can heighten any behaviors, we know that they do not cause stuttering.
Although a definitive cause of stuttering has not yet been identified, research has found that stuttering is a neurological condition with genetic links.
Are stuttering and cluttering treated the same way?
No. Just as stuttering and cluttering have very different characteristics, they also have different treatments. Stuttering is influenced by speech, whereas cluttering is influenced by language.
A person who stutters will often demonstrate repetitions, prolongations, blocks, and secondary behaviors with a heightened awareness of challenges. A person who clutters will often demonstrate a rapid speech rate, atypical speech patterns, and frequent interjections, revisions, and reduced awareness of challenges.