Breaks, Repetitions, and Prolongations: Could They Be Signs of Stuttering?
stuttering management, speech therapy, Hazel Ezgi Dündar, speech fluency, communication tips, stuttering support, speech disorder insights, child development
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Breaks, Repetitions, and Prolongations: Could They Be Signs of Stuttering?
Understanding Stuttering: Early Signs and Effective Approaches
Stuttering, a speech disorder characterized by disruptions in the flow of speech, typically emerges between the ages of 2 and 7. Speech and Language Therapist Hazel Ezgi Dündar emphasizes the critical role of recognizing early signs and adopting effective strategies to manage stuttering, which can significantly impact communication and social interaction.
What Is Stuttering?
Stuttering disrupts the fluency of speech through repetitions, prolongations, or pauses between sounds, syllables, or words. According to Dündar, this condition is not just a speech issue but also a neurodevelopmental difference.
“Stuttering often becomes visible during the development of sentence formation in children. When pauses, repetitions, or prolongations disturb the natural flow of speech, these could be signs of stuttering,” explains Dündar.
She notes that while stuttering may not directly affect learning ability, it can influence academic performance indirectly by making self-expression in classroom settings challenging.
What Causes Stuttering?
While the exact causes of stuttering remain unknown, researchers point to a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors.
“Stuttering doesn’t appear suddenly,” says Dündar, “but stress, trauma, or rapid language development can make it more noticeable.”
Effective Management Through Therapy
Speech therapy is a proven method to manage stuttering. Dündar highlights the importance of tailoring therapy to the individual:
“Specific therapy techniques are used to help individuals develop strategies for smoother communication. These approaches aim to reduce anxiety and improve confidence while speaking.”
How to Support Someone Who Stutters
Support from family and friends plays a critical role in managing stuttering. Dündar offers the following tips:
- Be Patient: Avoid rushing or interrupting the person. Let them finish their thoughts.
- Focus on the Message: Listen to what they are saying rather than how they are saying it.
- Avoid Pressuring: Phrases like “Take a deep breath” or “Slow down” can increase stress and are best avoided.
- Create a Supportive Environment: Foster a judgment-free space where communication feels safe.
Key Insights for Caregivers and Educators
Dündar emphasizes that stuttering is not a reflection of intelligence or potential. With patience and understanding, individuals who stutter can thrive socially and academically.
“Respect and empathy are paramount,” she states. “The focus should be on the individual’s strengths, not their speech patterns.”
Summary & Description (Meta Tag):
Learn how to recognize and manage stuttering with insights from Speech and Language Therapist Hazel Ezgi Dündar. Explore effective therapy options and tips for creating a supportive environment for individuals who stutter.
