Research Reveals New Information On Stuttering Causes and Intervention

Mary Ann Moore, M.A. CCC-SLP

Current research in the area of stuttering was a hot topic at the November American Speech-Language-Hearing Association's national conference in Philadelphia. Dr. Luc DeNil, Ph.D., researcher in Canada, is using fMRl (functional magnetic resonance imagery) studies to observe the differences in brain organization for language between people who stutter and peepie who do not stutter. His research has demonstrated that there are organizational differences between these groups. His research further shows that following treatment for stuttering, brain organization more closely resembles that of a fluent speaker.

Several researchers at the annual convention discussed the genetics of stuttering. We have known for years that stuttering tends to run in families. Researchers have identified chromosomes that are likely to carry a gene for stuttering within families. Stuttering is such a complex disorder, however, that some feel it is unlikely a single gene will be identified as the gene that carries stuttering.

One new development in the area of preschool stuttering therapy is the Lidcombe Program for Preschool Stuttering. In this program, developed in Australia under the direction of Mark Onslow, parents become the therapists at home. Parent and child visit the clinic once weekly for an hour to review the treatment, progress and plan for the coming week. The data collected to date indicates that the program is effective in treating stuttering in preschoolers.

The goal of our therapy here at Associates in Speech is to help our clients become effective communicators. For people who stutter, that includes utilizing a variety of therapeutic techniques designed to reduce stuttering, reduce the negative emotions associated with stuttering and give the client the confidence he or she needs to communicate effectively in any situation that arises.