commentr/StutterAugust 27, 2019

Content

I think linking would help you. Basically, what linking is, is blending the end of one word into the beginning of the next. Keep your voice "on" until you need to pause or take a breath. If your name is Taylor, you would say, "My name is Taylor," or "Nice to meet you, I'm Taylor," instead of just saying "Taylor." Also, you should disclose that you have a stutter. Intending to go through this meeting stutter-free is not only unrealistic, but it puts pressure on you which could make the stuttering even worse. After introducing yourself, say something like, "I have a speech disorder by the way, so if I start stuttering, that's why." Disclosing it not only takes pressure off of you, but it makes it less awkward for the listener when it inevitably happens. Most people don't really consider that stutters are a real problem some people deal with. Rightly so, as there is little awareness about it. Even when people hear stutters, they don't necesarrily think of it as being a speech impediment; they think you're nervous, mentally handicapped, inebriated, or just weird. Instead of the listener being confused as to what is going on with you, address it before it happens, or right after it does. It's no longer the elephant in the room. Good luck!

Themes

Coping & AdvocacySocial & Relationships

Subthemes

Fluency TechniquesDisclosure & Telling Others