What is Stuttering?

Stuttering is a fluency disorder in speech, characterized by obstructions that are above normal in frequency and length, but it is not a disease or a behavioral disorder. These obstructions manifest as repetitions, prolongations, and blocks. The fluency and rhythm of speech in stuttering are interrupted by pauses, repetitions, and often accompanied by associated physical movements. The severity of stuttering can vary according to the individual’s condition. Stuttering can make itself known gradually over time or can appear suddenly, and it is observed more frequently in males than in females.

Is Stuttering divided into different types?

Stuttering is not divided into different types, but it demonstrates different levels of severity. For example, the severity rate of a person’s stuttering might be 3%, 10%, or 25%. A 10% severity rate means that the person stutters on ten out of every hundred syllables they say. Observing the progression of stuttering in individuals, it is seen that repetitions (of sounds, syllables, words) occur first, followed later by prolongations. A high number of blocks indicates that the stuttering has been present for a long time.

There are no different types of stuttering, but the answer to the question, “Are different disorders seen in the fluency of speech?” is yes.

What is the progression of Stuttering?

Repetitions are an important indicator in stuttering. Generally, more than two repetitions are referred to as stuttering. Sound repetitions (c c c cat), syllable repetitions (ba ba ba ball), and word repetitions (look look look) may be seen.

The prolongation of a sound (like ppppppen…) is also among the indicators. The interruption of the flow of sound and air during speech is called blocking.

Looking at the developmental progression of stuttering, repetitions occur first, followed later by prolongations. A high number of blocks indicates that the stuttering has been present for a long time. Over time, after the person becomes aware of the disfluencies, they may exhibit secondary behaviors such as eye blinking or head shaking to escape the stuttering.

What are the stages of Stuttering?

A – Primary stuttering: This period can extend from 2-2.5 years up to 6-7 years of age. Stuttering is not constant but occurs in episodes. During this period, the child is not aware of their stuttering and generally does not avoid speaking or give psychological reactions to the breaks in fluency. The problem can be overcome with training given to the family. This period is called physiological stuttering.

B – Secondary stuttering: This is the period that emerges after the age of seven, where the child becomes aware of the disorder in their speech and begins to give psychological reactions. This type of stuttering requires treatment. As the child gets older, they become aware of their stuttering and start reacting to this manner of speaking. The child makes extra effort to prevent this situation. This process can show great differences in advanced ages. This stage of stuttering is generally an adjustment and behavioral disorder that appears in the preschool years, after the child has started speaking. While the child speaks normally in the first months, they start to stutter due to a traumatic event. If stuttering is not caused by any organic disorder, it is psychological in origin and is evaluated in the behavioral disorder category. Solutions are sought by considering these two groups of stuttering in different categories.

In what situations does Stuttering increase?

Individuals experiencing stuttering are more severely affected by the problem in certain situations. Their level of stuttering may increase when they are under stress, talking on the phone, trying to speak in front of a crowd, trying to tell a joke, or when they are under time pressure.

What problems arise if Stuttering is not treated?

Problems that stuttering can cause include: lack of self-confidence, failure and fear of failure, having fears about many things, failure at school, withdrawal, feelings of worthlessness, and depression.

How is Stuttering treated?

Fluency Shaping

Gentle onset, regulated breath–voice coordination, prolonged speech, rhythm, and tempo control.
Goal: To make speech more predictable and fluent; to automate it through daily repetition.

Stuttering Modification (Changing) Techniques

Reducing tension during a block, controlled exit, restarting.
Goal: To reduce avoidance, increase the sense of control over speech.

Cognitive Behavioral Approach

Reframing negative automatic thoughts, managing performance anxiety.
Goal: To reduce the fear of “What if I can’t speak,” increase social participation.

Play-Based Interventions for Children

Modeling, indirect feedback, parent-focused strategies (slowed speech, turn-taking).
Short and frequent repetitions with home programs.

Medication and Medical Approaches

The primary treatment is speech therapy; medication is not routine. Collaboration with relevant specialists may be necessary for co-occurring conditions like anxiety or attention problems.

Treatment Approaches by Age

Preschool Child

Early support, parent training, slow pace in home communication, uninterrupted listening environment.
Short, gamified sessions; regular feedback.

School Age and Adolescent

Fluency techniques + social situation rehearsal (in-class speaking, presentation).
Self-monitoring, peer, and teacher collaboration.

Adult

Work and social life goals (meetings, interviews, phone calls).
Anxiety management, presentation rehearsal, workplace communication strategies.

Duration of Treatment and Factors Affecting Success

Duration varies according to severity, co-occurring conditions, age, and session frequency.
Regular attendance, homework, and family/environmental support accelerate progress.
Treatment does not provide a “guarantee”; the goal is measurable progress and increased quality of life.

When to Seek Specialist Support?

If symptoms persist for longer than 6 months or if the person develops avoidance behaviors,
If school/work performance and social participation are affected,
If accompanied by significant anxiety and loss of self-confidence, a specialist should be consulted.