What is Stuttering?
Stuttering, sometimes called stammering, is a speech disorder that disrupts the normal flow of speech. It often involves repeating sounds, syllables, or words; prolonging sounds; or experiencing pauses known as "blocks." Although the person knows exactly what they want to say, the words may not come out smoothly. These disruptions may also be accompanied by physical signs like rapid eye blinking or lip tremors. This can make communication challenging, affecting confidence, school or work life, and even social relationships.
In Singapore, parents, educators, and speech-language therapists are increasingly aware of the impact stuttering can have, especially on children who might feel isolated or frustrated by their speech difficulties.
Who Stutters?
Stuttering affects people of all ages, but it’s most common among children between the ages of 2 and 6, as their language skills are still developing. For most children, stuttering is temporary. However, around 25% of cases persist into adulthood, creating lifelong challenges. Boys are more likely to stutter than girls, a trend seen globally and in Singapore. For children who continue to struggle with stuttering beyond early childhood, early intervention from a certified speech therapist can be transformative.
Why Does Stuttering Happen?
Stuttering can be complex, and while research has provided insights, the exact causes remain unclear. Generally, stuttering is classified into two types:
Developmental Stuttering: The most common form, often emerging in children as they learn to talk. Research suggests it may be influenced by genetic factors and subtle differences in brain function, which impact speech production. Scientists are continually learning more about these brain and genetic components to improve stuttering support.
Neurogenic Stuttering: This type is typically seen in adults after brain injuries, such as from a stroke or trauma, affecting the brain's speech-coordination regions. While rare, neurogenic stuttering highlights how complex speech production truly is.
How is Stuttering Diagnosed?
Stuttering is diagnosed by qualified speech-language pathologists. A thorough assessment includes understanding a child's speech history, their fluency patterns, and any challenges they face in daily communication. Speech therapists may also involve family members in the evaluation to get a complete picture.
How is Stuttering Treated?
Though there isn’t a "cure" for stuttering, there are effective ways to manage and improve fluency, particularly with early intervention.
For Children: Speech Therapy often focuses on creating a relaxed environment where children feel encouraged to express themselves. Parents can chime in by practising patience, listening attentively, and minimizing pressure on the child to "get the words out" quickly. Simple strategies, like slowing down your speech or making time for relaxed family conversations, can help ease a child's anxiety around speaking.
For Teens and Adults: Speech therapy often focuses on managing the physical symptoms of stuttering and addressing the social or emotional impact. Techniques include learning to control breathing and speaking at a slower pace. For many, joining a support group or engaging in activities where speech is practised in a low-pressure setting, like Toastmasters, can also build confidence.
Practical Tips for Supporting a Person Who Stutters
Here are some ways you can support a family member or friend dealing with stuttering:
Patience is Key: Avoid completing sentences for them or showing impatience.
Create Low-Pressure Situations: Encourage relaxed, one-on-one conversations.
Engage in Activities that Build Fluency: For some, reading aloud or singing can reduce stuttering episodes, temporarily.
For more information on Speech, please read through the following links:
Finding Support for Stuttering in Singapore
Total Communication has been helping children and adolescents going through communication barriers for 2 decades. With all that experience and international expertise, we help with therapy for stuttering for children and adolescents who need immediate help.
With early childhood interventions for communication fluency, our team provides evidence-based strategies to help those who stutter gain confidence and improve fluency. If you or a loved one is seeking professional help, reach out to Total Communication to learn more about our approach and services.
For more information, contact us:
1 Pemimpin Drive #11-08 Singapore 576151
+65 9115 8895
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