Fluency is the aspect of speech production that refers to continuity, smoothness, rate, and effort.
Cluttering is a fluency disorder that is characterized by a perceived rapid and/or irregular speech rate, which results in breakdowns in speech clarity and/or fluency.
Stuttering, the most common fluency disorder, is an interruption in the flow of speaking characterized by repetitions (sounds, syllables, words, phrases), sound prolongations, blocks, interjections, and revisions, which may affect the rate and rhythm of speech. These disfluencies may be accompanied by physical tension, negative reactions, secondary behaviors, and avoidance of sounds, words, or speaking situations.
Stuttering typically has its origins in childhood. Most children who stutter, begin to do so around 2 ½ years of age. Approximately 95% of children who stutter start to do so before the age of 5 years. Stuttering can impede social interactions and success in school and/or work. Some children who stutter often report anxiety in anticipation of speaking tasks or become embarrassed when speaking with unfamiliar listeners. Children who stutter may also be at risk of experiencing bullying. Adults may also experience a form of fluency disorder known as neurogenic stuttering. This type of stuttering may result after a stroke or traumatic brain injury. Speech therapy can help to teach strategies to reduce stuttering moments and ease the anxiety of the individual.
Help is here
If you or someone you know is struggling with fluency, Reavis Rehab & Wellness Center is here to help. Request an appointment with one of our therapists today!
