stotter

Stotter, or stuttering, is a speech fluency disorder characterized by disruptions in the flow of speech, including repetitions, prolongations, and blocks. It typically begins in early childhood, around ages 2 to 6, and affects about 1% of the population. Many children recover spontaneously, while some continue into adulthood; boys are diagnosed more often than girls.

Common symptoms include repeating sounds or syllables, prolonging sounds, and involuntary pauses within words. Speakers may use interjections, revisions, or circumlocutions. Secondary behaviors such as facial tension or body movements can accompany episodes, and anxiety or speaking pressure can exacerbate fluency difficulties.

Causes are multifactorial and not fully understood. Genetic factors increase risk, and neurophysiological differences in speech-motor networks are implicated. Environmental influences can affect severity, but stuttering is not caused by parenting or poor instruction. Onset is usually in early childhood and may progress or improve over time.

Diagnosis is typically by a speech-language pathologist through fluency assessment and evaluation of functional impact. Stuttering exists on a spectrum, and assessment focuses on individual needs and communication goals rather than labeling speech as abnormal.

Treatment is individualized. Evidence-based approaches include fluency shaping, stuttering modification, and, for some, cognitive-behavioral therapy to address anxiety. For children, early intervention and parent involvement are important. Many people improve with time and ongoing support; prognosis is favorable with appropriate therapy, especially when started early.