When talking, words usually flow smoothly without interruptions. It’s common to repeat words or pause while thinking about what to say. But if communication becomes difficult because sounds or words get stuck, this could be stuttering.
People who stutter may show some or all the following differences in their speech.
Repetitions
Quickly repeating single sounds, syllables, or one-syllable words. For example:
- I like t-toast.
- Look at the bu-bu-butterfly.
- I-I-I am five years old.
Prolongations
Saying a sound for longer. The voice may become louder or change pitch. For example:
- I am fffffive years old.
- I aaaaaaaam 20 years old.
Blocks
Struggling, getting stuck, or not taking a breath when trying to get a sound or word out. Blocking usually happens at the start of a word.
If a block happens in the middle of a word, it is called a broken word. For example:
Tension
Showing tension in speech muscles—in the lips, tongue or vocal folds (also called vocal cords)—or in the body while stuttering. For example:
- blinking
- bobbing your head
- making faces (grimace)
- making a fist
- stomping your foot
Breathing disruptions
Taking a lot of breaths or quick breaths while trying to start talking.
Other features of stuttering
Some features of stuttering can be seen and heard, but some can’t. Stuttering may affect a person in many ways, including how they:
- feel about speaking
- feel about themself
- interact with other people
- take part in activities
Stuttering can change over time and in different situations. For example, stuttering can be different with familiar people than with new people. Stuttering can come and go, especially in young children.
Children
Stuttering that begins in early childhood, usually between the ages of 2½ and 5 years, is called developmental stuttering. Some children stop stuttering on their own and others continue to stutter.
Children may be more likely to stutter if they are born male, have someone in their family who stutters, and started stuttering after age 3 ½ years.
There is no way to know who will stop stuttering and who will continue. Developmental stuttering is not caused by parenting, mental health concerns, or a bad scare.
For concerns about a child’s stuttering, talk to a speech-language pathologist.
Adults
Some adults who stutter have done so since childhood. It is also possible to start stuttering after a brain injury (such as from a car crash or a stroke) or because of mental health conditions. These are called acquired stuttering or psychogenic stuttering.
Adults who stutter can learn to communicate more confidently. For concerns about stuttering, talk to a speech-language pathologist.
Common dysfluencies
Most people have small interruptions in their speech, called common dysfluencies. These interruptions usually happen when a person is thinking about what they want to say. Unlike stuttering, these interruptions are typically slower. They may include:
-
Repeating words: I (pause) I want chocolate.
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Repeating phrases: I like (pause) I like vacations.
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Interjecting: Using extra sounds, syllables, or words often when they are thinking about what to say. Common interjections include: uh, um, well, like, you know, actually.
-
Revising: I like cake (pause) cookies.
For more ideas
For more ideas and resources to support stuttering, visit:
Where to get help
Speech-language pathologists and audiologists can help with speech, language, and hearing concerns. To learn more, contact your local community health centre, or visit
Adult Community Rehabilitation or
Pediatric Rehabilitation.
