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Brooke Walker ReportingMost of us don't stop to think about how we talk, but for thousands of children, forming words and sentences is a scary challenge. Stuttering is actually a very common speech problem. New research may provide a way for parents to better treat and even anticipate the disorder.
"I want the words to come out and they won't come out. Because they are stuck in my throat."
For 11-year old Devan, every word is work, each sentence a struggle. During therapy, Devan practices the basics, including eye contact and simple social interactions.
Tomm Gurrister, Wasatch Speech and Language Center: "You're dealing with a lot of issues, both the physical act of speaking and the emotional and psychological parts of stuttering."
Speech pathologist Tom Gurrister says while stuttering is a difficult issue, new research is bringing both awareness and answers.
Tomm Gurrister: "Is it a physiological or a physical problem? I think the easy answer is, it's both. Those psychological issues have a lot to do with the development of stuttering."
That link is supported by a new study out of Vanderbilt University. The research shows young kids who stutter react more emotionally to everyday stresses, like having to share a toy. It takes them longer to settle down, once they have become excited or upset. And they stay focused on the stress and have a hard time moving on.
While this new information strengthens the emotional and physical connection of stuttering, it also highlights an issue many people don't understand.
"People see someone who stutters, someone like Devan, and they act like it's a minor annoyance or it must be embarrassing at times. They have no idea how much it affects a stutterer's life."
Affect, but not limit. Devan is proof of that. He has big plans to follow the path of his hero, NBA basketball announcer and stutterer, Bill Walton.
There are many great resources available to kids and parents. Check out the links at the top, right of this story for some resources.
