About Stuttering

What We Know

The good news is that we know a great deal about stuttering. We know more than what is typically presented in the media.

• For most who stutter, we've observed that the primary physical feature of stuttering is an involuntary tightening of the vocal cords due to misfired signals from the brain. It has genetic and neurological roots.
• Because of this tightening in the throat, breathing and mouth movements become forced and labored.
• The learned fear of stuttering increases physical tension which helps to create more stuttering.
• Due to the fear of negative judgment, most attempt to hide their problem, sometimes completely masking the disorder from unassuming listeners.
• Even children as young as age three cover their mouths and begin to withdraw from speaking.

Stuttering:

• Occurs among 5-8% of children, usually between the ages of two and six. 70-80% of these kids will naturally outgrow their stuttering. Early intervention can help these kids outgrow stuttering sooner, and may help children recover from stuttering if they wouldn't do so naturally.
• Is a treatable and surmountable condition for all ages with the right help.
• Affects 1% of the population across all languages and cultures, nearly 4 million people in the United States and 60 million worldwide.
• Affects 3 times more males than females.
• Is a variable condition. Most who stutter can speak fluently at least some of the time. And most sing without stuttering because of different neurological requirements.

American Institute for Stuttering
27 W 20th St. Suite 1203
New York, NY 10011

phone: (212) 633-6400
fax: (212) 220-3922

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