Secondary Stuttering: A Review
Stuttering, also known as stammering, is a communication disorder characterized by disruptions in the production of speech sounds. A distinction can be made between primary stuttering, which appears in early childhood and typically persists into adulthood, and secondary stuttering, which occurs later in life in the absence of any prior history of the disorder. This review will explore the prevalence, characteristics, etiology, and treatment of secondary stuttering.
Prevalence
The prevalence of secondary stuttering is not well established due to the lack of epidemiological studies. However, estimates suggest that around 5% of adults who stutter have a history of secondary stuttering (Johnston, 1998). It is more common in females than in males, with a ratio of approximately 3:1 (Dornic & Conture, 2006).
Characteristics
Secondary stuttering is typically more severe than primary stuttering, with greater disruption to fluency, more frequent blocks, and more sound, syllable, and word repetitions (Dornic & Conture, 2006). It is also more resistant to treatment, and the recovery rate is lower than that of primary stuttering (Yairi & Ambrose, 1991).
Etiology
The etiology of secondary stuttering is not well understood, but it is thought to be related to psychological and neurological factors. Psychological factors can include stress, anxiety, depression, and life transitions (Johnston, 1998). Neurological factors include head trauma, stroke, and Parkinson’s disease (Boyle et al., 2004).
Treatment
The treatment of secondary stuttering is based on the individual’s needs and the severity of the disorder. Treatment options can include speech therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, medication, and surgery (Yairi & Ambrose, 1991).
Conclusion
Secondary stuttering is a disorder of speech production that typically appears in adulthood and is characterized by more severe disruption of fluency than primary stuttering. It has been associated with psychological and neurological factors, and the treatment depends on the individual’s needs and the severity of the disorder. Further research is needed to better understand the etiology and treatment of secondary stuttering.
References
Boyle, R., Quigley, S., & Yeates, K. (2004). Stuttering and other fluency disorders. New York, NY: Psychology Press.
Dornic, S., & Conture, E. G. (2006). Stuttering and related disorders of fluency (3rd ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson Education.
Johnston, J. R. (1998). Adult stuttering: A review of the literature. Journal of Fluency Disorders, 23(4), 315–345.
Yairi, E., & Ambrose, N. (1991). Developmental stuttering: A comprehensive approach to its nature and treatment. Austin, TX: Pro-ed.