What causes stuttering?

There are four factors most likely to contribute to the development of stuttering: genetics (approximately 60% of people who stutter have a family member who also stutters); childhood development (children with other speech and language problems or developmental delays are more likely to stutter); neurophysiology (recent neurological research has shown that people who stutter process speech and language slightly differently than those who do not); and family dynamics (high expectations and fast-paced lifestyles can contribute to stuttering).

Stuttering can occur when a combination of factors is present and can have different causes in different people. The causes of stuttering are likely to be different from those that cause it to continue or worsen.

How many people stutter?

More than 70 million people worldwide stutter, which is approximately 1% of the population. In Catalonia, there are about 75,000 people who stutter.

What is the proportion of men and women who stutter?

Approximately, out of every four people affected, three are male and one is female.

How many children stutter?

Approximately 5% of all children experience a period of stuttering, lasting six months or more; three-quarters of these will recover by the end of childhood, leaving about 1% with a long-term problem. The best preventative measure is early intervention.

I think my son is starting to stutter. Should I wait or seek help?

The best approach is to find ways for parents to help as soon as possible, making communication relaxed and giving the child time. If the stuttering persists for more than three to six months or is particularly severe, you may want to seek help from a professional specializing in stuttering.

Can stuttering be treated?

Yes, there are a variety of successful approaches to treating children and adults. Generally, the earlier they are implemented, the better.

Are there any famous people who stutter?

Emily Blunt, James Earl Jones, John Stossel, Bill Walton, Mel Tillis, Winston Churchill, Marilyn Monroe, Carly Simon, Annie Glenn, Nicholas Brendon, Ken Venturi, Bob Love, John Updike, King George VI… All of them are famous people who stuttered.

I’ve read about a new treatment for stuttering. Does such a thing exist?

There are no instant miracle cures for stuttering. Therapy, devices, and even medications are not magic cures. However, a stuttering specialist can help not only children but also teenagers, young adults, and even older adults make significant progress toward acceptance, reduce suffering, and improve fluency.

How should I act around a person who stutters?

Sources: Partially adapted from The Stuttering Foundation