What We Know:
1. Genetics- approximately 60% of people who stutter have a close family member that stutters as well. In addition, recent research by Dr. Dennis Drayna has identified three genes as a source of stuttering in families studied.
2. Neurophysiology- brain imaging studies have indicated that people who stutter may process language in different areas of the brain than people who do not stutter.
3. Child development- children with developmental delays or other speech/language disorders are more likely to stutter. (Note: By no means, is this implying that all people who stutter have delays in other areas. There is simply an increased likelihood of stuttering in children with developmental delays and language disorders.)
4. Family dynamics- high expectations and fast-paced lifestyles may play a role in stuttering
Family Dynamics?? I Thought I Wasn't the Cause??
You're not! There are plenty of "fast-paced" families out there that do not have children that stutter. However, there are certain environments that may exacerbate disfluencies in a child who already has the increased propensity to stutter.
If I'm Not To Blame, Then Why Does My Child Stutter More At Home And Around Me?
Although this is certainly not true of all children, many of my clients have stated that their child stutters more at home. Contrary to what most parents would believe, this is usually a positive thing and not a sign that they are doing something wrong! What these parents are witnessing is "open stuttering." Open stuttering occurs when a child (or adult) speaks freely and without hiding, avoiding or "going around" words that they worry they may stutter on. Instead of feeling accountable for this increase in disfluencies, parents should be praised for creating a supportive environment that has allowed their child to be themselves and has encouraged their child to express themselves whether or not they stutter. At school or around peers your child may not stutter as frequently, however this may be a result of avoidance behaviors such as switching words or opting to speak less. These avoidance behaviors can be exhausting and frustrating! Home should be a place for your child to take a break from "avoiding" and say exactly what they want to say, when they want to say it (even if it means taking a little longer to come out!).
But What About The Techniques My Child Is Learning In Speech Therapy?
The strategies your child is learning with their speech pathologist are extremely valuable in giving them a way to make choices when it comes to their speech, especially when entering a difficult speaking situation (i.e. reading aloud, oral presentation, introducing themselves, etc.) However, when it comes down to it, it is up to them when they choose to use their speech tools. They should be praised when they practice or use their techniques but also praised for open stuttering! It may not be easy, but resist the urge to feel (or express) disappointment when your child stutters. Be proud that when they begin to stutter they are choosing to continue to speak and be heard!
*This entry is also featured on ASHA's (American Speech Language and Hearing Association) blog, ASHAsphere as well as in the November issue of Washington Parent (pg 56-57).