Stammning

Stammning (stuttering) is a neurodevelopmental speech fluency disorder defined by disruptions in the flow of speech. Core features include repetitions of sounds or syllables, prolongations of sounds, and involuntary blocks where speech momentarily stops. Many people also show secondary behaviors such as tension in the jaw or neck, facial movements, or rapid eye blinking. The onset is usually in early childhood, commonly between ages two and five. Although transient disfluencies are common during language development, most children recover, while a subset develops persistent stammning that can affect communication.

Stammning arises from multifactorial factors. Genetic predisposition plays a role, and differences in speech-motor planning and language processing networks have been observed in some individuals who stammer. Environmental factors may influence the course but are not primary causes. There is no single cause, and severity can vary across settings and over time.

Diagnosis is typically made by a speech-language pathologist based on a detailed history and observation of speech, with assessment of disfluency types and frequency. Differential diagnosis may consider cluttering or other speech and language disorders.

Treatment and management are individualized. Early, supportive speech therapy often helps, with approaches such as slow, relaxed speech, easy onset of phonation, and strategies to manage talking time. Other methods include stuttering modification or fluency shaping, and, when appropriate, cognitive-behavioral approaches to address anxiety. Family involvement and regular practice are important. Some people use assistive tools such as pacing devices or delayed auditory feedback, though evidence and access vary.

Prognosis varies: many children improve or recover, while some persist into adolescence or adulthood. Early intervention and a supportive environment improve outcomes.