Stuttering and Stigma
Noemi Monaco, Francesca Verni
Stuttering is a neurodevelopmental disorder that emerges early in childhood and is characterized by involuntary disruptions in speech fluency, impairing the ability to communicate effectively. Defined by the World Health Organization (WHO, 1977) as a speech rhythm disorder, stuttering is a complex phenomenon with a multifactorial and multidimensional nature. While verbal disfluencies are the most apparent manifestations, the emotional, cognitive, and behavioural reactions associated with the disorder have an even greater impact on the social, academic, and professional lives of people who stutter. Communication difficulties often fuel anxiety, frustration, and embarrassment, which are further exacerbated by social stigma, contributing to a negative and distorted perception of the disorder. The aim of this study is to explore the Italian population’s knowledge of stuttering, with the goal of analysing potential prejudices and misconceptions that influence the understanding of the disorder and attitudes toward people who stutter. The research was conducted through a web survey. The results highlight the need to develop evidence-based informational services to promote an accurate understanding of stuttering, reduce stigma, and improve the quality of life for individuals who stutter.
Keywords
Stuttering, Neurodevelopmental disorder, Social stigma, Stereotypes, Attitudes.
