Stuttering is also known as stammering. It is a very widely prevalent speech disorder. Characterized by the repetition of sounds or words, syllables, or alphabets, this is basically a prolongation of speech. When you observe your child facing struggle or interruptions in his speech, you should take that as a sign that he suffers from stuttering or stammering.
This is speech disruption and it may entail a few other problems as well such as struggle with behavior, rapid blinking of the eye, tremors of the lip, and a little impact on the motor skills of the individual as well. It is common among both children and adults. In the section below, we will talk a little about its symptoms, characteristics, stuttering speech therapy, probable medication, and more to help you understand what it is.
What Causes Your Child Or A Loved One To Stutter?
Doctors and researchers are not certain as to why this happens. Stuttering is a result of several factors that contribute to the entire problem. It can be understood as an interruption in the signals that the brain sends and receives across various muscles and body parts that are used in speaking. Some doctors and researchers believe that stuttering can be genetic. So yes, if you stuttered as a child, it is a probability that your children may face similar struggles growing up.
Signs And Symptoms Of Stuttering And Stammering
- The individual finds it difficult to start or pronounce a word or sentence
- The word or sound gets prolonged for an unusual time duration
- Repetition of a sound or a syllable
- Brief silence when it comes to pronouncing a few syllables or words
- Addition of extra words and syllabus when making phrases and sentences
- Anxiety when it comes to talking
- Excess tension in muscles, and limbs and also tightness in the upper body
- Limited or little ability to communicate effectively
- Rapid blinking of the eye as mentioned above
- Tremoring lips and jaw muscles
- Jerking of the head
- Clenching of face
- Facial tics
Stuttering Treatment Options To Look Out For
- Stuttering Speech Therapy
This is one of the safest ways to manage this problem. The speech therapist can help the patient learn how to notice the words and phrases that they have the most trouble with when pronouncing. They can help the individual speak deliberately and slowly so that they can form sentences efficiently.
- Electronic Devices
Some stuttering speech therapy experts would also recommend electronic devices. These devices can enhance the fluency of the individual. Your speech pathologist can help you choose the most appropriate device for your needs.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
This is a category of psychotherapy that helps the patient identify his thought process and change his way of thinking. This helps him with the symptoms of stammering and stuttering. This psychotherapy is helpful in reducing anxiety, stress, trauma, and also self-esteem related problems
- Interaction
Interaction and communication between the child and parent are also very critical when it comes to managing the symptoms of stuttering. You can help your child overcome this issue with regular guidance and frequent practice with speaking in a comfortable environment. When it comes to medication, no drugs have been proven effective to help with this problem.
In The End
Your stuttering speech therapy expert is going to recommend that you remain patient, considerate, and helpful toward your loved ones suffering from this problem.