commentr/StutterJuly 12, 2025

Content

There's a lot of research on stuttering. We know that it's a neurodevelopmental difference in the way that people's brains process and coordinate speech, which is why it's hard to change or control, and there's no 'fix'. The regulation side and secondary features such as tension, movements and increased heart rate all build up over time - when children first begin to stutter they tend to stutter with no associated tension. These secondary features can build up over time due to avoidance of stuttering, reactions of others, negative experiences. Can be described almost like an onion with layers building up over time: https://stamma.org/your-voice/therapy-explained-through-stammering-onion Therapy to reduce the avoidance and let go of the tension. Stuttering doesn't have to equal struggle. This may involve some CBT strategies or ACT, but some people also find mindfulness helpful. People often find that they stutter less when they sing or act - your brain already knows these words or lines so they're not spontaneous, so it activates a different part of your brain. Also from the cognitive side, you're not being 'yourself' or using your 'true voice' so some people feel less speaking anxiety.

Themes

Causes & VariabilityIdentity & DisabilityTherapy & ProfessionalCoping & Advocacy

Subthemes

Neurological & BrainMedicalization / NeurodiversityTherapy ExperiencesFluency Techniques