Cultural Attitudes toward Oral Expression, Stuttering and Speech Therapy

Ying-Chiao Tsao

Attitude is an important cultural factor guiding individuals to perceive the world and act accordingly (Watson & Kayser, 1994). Attitude changing has its influential accountability for a successful treatment (Cole, 1989; McClure & Yaruss, 2003). Information regarding attitude toward stuttering has been exclusively derived from the mainstream society, whereas very little is known for the minority communities. This study surveyed the attitudes toward oral expression, stuttering and speech therapy among Chinese communities across nation in the United States. The study revealed several differences in cultural attitudes that deserve much attention when working with individuals from other cultural communities.