Word Retrieval Function and Compensation in Stuttering

Charn Ying Nang, Neville Hennessey and Janet Beilby

The literature lacks information about why adults who stutter (AWS) and controls differ, e.g., at different stages of speech production. Thus, the cause of stuttering is still unknown due to lack of theoretically driven investigations. Word retrieval processes (semantic activation, phonological encoding, motor programming and execution) (Levelt, 1989) were examined using reaction time (RT) behavioural tasks in 18 AWS and 18 controls. Clinical information about stuttering severities and use of compensatory mechanisms were also gathered. Word retrieval functioning was examined in AWS compared to controls, and also relationships with clinical measures. Implications of results will be discussed.