 |
Powered by Freefind |
|
 |
| |
|
|
|
Factsheet
If you are a journalist looking for information about stammering,
look no further! Find the answers to frequently asked questions on
the subject of stammering below.
Is there a cure for stammering?
Stammering or stuttering is a complex problem for which there
is no simple explanation or "cure", but lots of help can be given.
What causes stammering?
We don't know the exact causes but we do know that parents don't cause
stammering. Most experts agree a combination of factors makes one
child more vulnerable to stammering than another. Stammering tends
to run in families and scientists are confident that a genetic link
will be found quite soon.
How many people stammer?
Approximately 5% of children will stammer at some time - most will
overcome it with or without help, about 1% may continue to stammer
into adulthood. It is found in all groups throughout society and throughout
the world. It has been recorded throughout history and many famous
names are associated with the problem e.g. Moses, King George V1,
Pop Idol Gareth Gates, Carly Simon, Rowan Atkinson, Margaret Drabble,
Bruce Oldfield .
When does stammering begin?
It usually begins in childhood between the ages of 2 - 5 years - at
the same time as children are rapidly developing their speech and
language skills.
Why do more boys than girls stammer?
There is no clear answer to this - but boys are often more vulnerable
to speech and language problems generally. Generally they often seem
quicker in their physical development than in their talking. Some
research also suggests that more girls grow out of the problem than
boys.
Why is it that people who stammer can sing?
This has always been a puzzle. It is interesting that people who stammer
are often able to recite rhymes or poetry fluently too. Acting a part
in a play, putting on different accents or whispering are often easy
to do. It may be because the words are already there, so the language
doesn't need to be planned or constructed. It may be that the different
rhythms, intonation and voice quality use other parts of the brain
to coordinate the speaking mechanism. It may be that, in acting, the
person is not "being themselves" but taking the role of someone else.
While this is very interesting, none of these facts have ever been
found to be very helpful in overcoming the problem.
How should people react to stammering?
Speak normally and listen carefully! Try to have as natural and relaxed
a conversation as possible. Concentrate on what the person is saying,
not how it is being said. Give the person time to speak, try not to
appear worried or uncomfortable. Using natural eye contact is helpful
and will help the person who stammers feel more relaxed. Don't try
to help out! Avoid finishing off sentences or words. This just adds
to the frustration, you are guessing what the speaker is trying to
say - and you may be wrong. Of course, normal conversation is interactive
and lively - try to keep it that way. Don't give advice! Avoid giving
suggestions or advice - it is often very unhelpful to say, "Take a
deep breath" or "don't worry about it"!
How can people get some help?
We suggest that if a parent is worried they should seek help as soon
as possible. Speech and Language Therapy Services are usually organised
by the local NHS service. Most GPs, Health Visitors or other professionals
will be able to help a parent find out who to contact. Don't be put
off by being told "not to worry", or "he'll grow out of it" - although
many children do, it is better to seek help early than wait until
the child is worried about talking and the problem becomes more difficult
to tackle.
You can also try the British
Stammering Association or the Royal
College of Speech and Language Therapists for more help and advice.
|
|
|
|
| |
 |
|
| |
|
|
| |
|
"I went to the fish shop and asked for a sausage and chips and didn't
stammer once."
How You Can Help |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
