Public perceptions of stuttering in Jordan: An exploratory survey of community attitudes

The purpose of this study was to investigate knowledge about stuttering in the Jordanian community and the public attitudes that the Jordanians might have toward people who stutter.

First, five non-stuttering speakers served as a focus group; they were interviewed in a qualitative, open-ended discussion to inform the design of a culturally appropriate questionnaire. Based on the participants' responses in the focus group and similar items used in the literature, a questionnaire was designed for the current study. The survey was administered to 240 non-stuttering speakers to assess their knowledge and attitudes about people who stutter.

No significant interaction effect was observed between gender and either knowledge or attitudes toward people who stutter. Education, religiosity, and contact status did not significantly predict knowledge about stuttering. The greatest perceived difference between fluent speakers and people who stutter was in speaking ability. Education and religiosity were significantly associated with attitudes, with higher levels of both linked to more positive attitude scores The association with religiosity may reflect the influence of non-discriminatory religious principles in Islamic teachings that emphasize equality and compassion. Contact status and knowledge were not significant predictors of attitudes.

Findings reveal specific areas of limited knowledge and persistent negative attitudes toward stuttering in Jordan, while also highlighting the potential positive roles of education and religiosity. The study underscores the need for culturally tailored public awareness campaigns to reduce stigma.