commentr/StutterFebruary 28, 2025

Content

You’re absolutely right to point out that stuttering affects both the person who stutters and those around them. And yes, I understand that OP is voicing their genuine frustration, which is completely valid. But the difference here is the way that frustration is being expressed and, more importantly, how it’s being received by the husband. There’s a key point that the first comment was driving at: it’s not just about unconditional love, it’s about how you express that love. You can love someone and still, unfortunately, be unkind, frustrated, and even ableist without realizing it. And that’s what OP is missing here. You’re focusing on the fact that OP loves their husband, which is clear, but love isn’t just about feeling something. It’s about actively showing up for someone, especially when they’re vulnerable. The issue is that OP’s frustration is coming across as impatience and a lack of empathy. Criticizing someone’s speech patterns, whether it’s stuttering, speed of speech, or tone, is ableist, plain and simple. It’s a subtle form of discrimination. And while it might not be intentional, the frustration and irritation OP is displaying are reinforcing the idea that their husband’s way of communicating is a problem that needs fixing. That’s not just unfair to him; it’s emotionally damaging. And the thing about stuttering is that it’s not something people choose to do. It’s not a behavior that can be controlled by simply “trying harder.” Stuttering can be deeply humiliating and frustrating, and for OP to be frustrated by it while being unable to acknowledge that it’s not something their husband can just turn off. It feels dismissive of the reality of what stuttering is. So, while OP might be trying to express love, their actions are contradicting their words. The fact that OP is asking for advice is great, but there needs to be an understanding that stuttering is not something that should be “tolerated” in a way that makes the person feel like a burden. The problem isn’t just that it’s taking longer to communicate, it’s that OP is visibly frustrated with their husband’s struggle. It’s fine to feel frustrated, but you can’t act on that frustration in a way that harms someone else. This isn’t just about having a conversation where you “throw more love” at the problem. It’s about learning how to communicate without letting your personal discomfort turn into frustration that alienates your partner. That’s the kind of ableism I’m talking about. It’s not overt, but it is damaging nonetheless. And yes, your perspective is important, but let’s also acknowledge that OP needs to see the harm in how they’re approaching this. They’re trying to help, but there’s a need for awareness about how their frustration is making the husband feel. It’s not just about loving them. It’s about how to actively support them, not unintentionally make them feel worse about something they can’t control. So, I agree, the couple needs to talk openly about this. But this needs to go beyond just “talking about it” to also include changing how OP reacts when their husband stutters. Because right now, it’s not just about love. It’s about how that love is communicated. And if OP can’t get better at supporting their husband through this struggle, then that love is only going to be a source of pain, not a source of healing.

Themes

Emotional ExperienceIdentity & DisabilityCauses & VariabilitySocial & Relationships

Subthemes

Anxiety & Social JudgmentStigma & BullyingTrauma & PsychologicalShame & EmbarrassmentListener ReactionsFrustration & Anger