Terminology -- Can Better Description Lead to Better Diagnosis and Therapy

Mark Irwin

It is acknowledged chronic stuttering involves more than just the occurrence of dysfluent speech. A large component of the condition involves the behaviours of avoidance, word substitution and circumlocution; associated feelings of fear, frustration, shame, embarrassment; and as well attitudes of helplessness and denial. Ideas will be presented AND SOUGHT to address development and dissemination of terminology used to describe stuttering and its diagnosis. The aim of this process would be to make descriptions of stuttering more relevant to both PWS and therapists as well as providing a focus for more effective therapy and a format for improving the general understanding of the stuttering condition. All ideas are welcome.