commentr/StutterMarch 1, 2024

Content

This sounds like a frustrating situation! Ultimately, I've felt/learned that it's best for me to expect myself to perform the same speaking tasks as those around me. Of course, if speaking in class while stuttering is something you're afraid of (something I remember experiencing too), I don't think you or anyone in your situation needs to straighten up and talk as spontaneously as everyone else starting tomorrow. Gradually ramping up to this is important, but ultimately I believe (and there is research to support this) the goal for all of us should be to communicate in the same environments with the same expectations as our peers. This involves a lot of learning, advocating for ourselves/educating others, and becoming resilient, but in the long (and short) run is so much more rewarding. note: this can be tricky because many SLP's (speech-language pathologists, or speech therapists) will say that not presenting/speaking in class are appropriate modifications. This often stems from their unfamiliarity with stuttering and desire to shield us from difficulty. But I promise that there are ways to be a confident communicator/speaker and stutter openly all the time!

Themes

Identity & DisabilitySchool & Work

Subthemes

Acceptance & PridePublic Speaking