1. A Verbal Speech Problem
Stuttering is a verbal speech problem that affects many people. The individual with this disorder may speak words or sentences with broken, missing or prolonged sounds. The National Institute of Health estimates that some 3 million Americans have some form of verbal stuttering problem. Experts have some different schools of thought concerning how a stuttering problem develops. Some forms of stuttering are thought to be tic or brain disorders in which there is a misfiring of information to the brain, making it difficult to form speech in a fluid manner.
2. Males More Likely to Be Stutterers
Stuttering is much more prominent amongst males than females. Individuals of all ages seem to be effected; however the majority of pervasive stuttering seems to occur in men. Males are four times as likely to be stutterers than females. Scientists believe this problem could be due to slowed developmental rates in boys as compared to girls. Also, perhaps the development of language is sometimes replaced with more kinesthetic ability, making it more common for boys to develop problems surrounding speech patterns. However, most children do tend to outgrow stuttering problems, regardless of sex. Almost 75% of kids who start stuttering will stop within 2 years without speech therapy. However, if the stuttering is a problem for longer than 6 months, it will require more intervention and therapy.
3. Get Help From Your Speech Pathologist
Stuttering, while usually not a major problem, can become a serious problem for some individuals in which it is extremely severe. Speech pathologists can help to diagnose and work with a stuttering problem in an individual so they can better cope and navigate the world. Diagnosis of a stuttering problem typically has to come with a history of stuttering and a marked decrease in positive social functioning.
4. Slow Down Speech and Pacing
Many individuals find that slowing down speech and pacing help tremendously in preventing stuttering. For people who suffer from stuttering difficulties, relaxation techniques and maintaining a relatively low stress level all help to make language production smoother. Speaking slowly to a stutterer encourages them to slow their speech so they do not feel rushed to complete sentences or thoughts before the brain has finished processing the verbal cues. Steering clear of intensive public speaking venues or learning how to manage speaking anxiety through therapy or even hypnosis can have promising results.
5. Proud to Talk
Individuals affected by a stuttering problem often develop self esteem issues around speaking and expressing themselves. Stuttering can be a frustrating problem that can lead to embarrassment and isolation if not treated in a non-judgmental and loving manner. Find individuals who support the stutterer and help them to feel comfortable and calm in expressing themselves. It will help stutters feel confident in their own speech abilities and be more productive in the world of speech. Self esteem building and development of one's talents is important when stuttering is a problem.
