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An epidemiologic study of stuttering
A Ardila1, J R Bateman, C R Niño
1Instituto Colombiano de Neuropsicologia, Bogotá, South America.
Journal of Communication Disorders
|March 1, 1994
Summary
This study found 2% of Spanish-speaking university students self-report stuttering. Stutterers showed higher rates of brain injury history, dyslexia, word-finding issues, and depression symptoms compared to non-stutterers.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
- Speech-Language Pathology
Background:
- Stuttering is a complex speech disorder with potential links to neurological and psychological factors.
- Understanding the prevalence and associated conditions in diverse populations is crucial for effective intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of self-reported stuttering among Spanish-speaking university students.
- To investigate the relationship between stuttering and central nervous system risk factors, associated disorders, and depression symptoms.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire was administered to 1879 Spanish-speaking university students (mean age 24.0).
- The questionnaire assessed self-reported stuttering, central nervous system risk factors, associated disorders (allergies, headache, dyslexia, substance use), and depression symptoms.
Main Results:
- A prevalence of 2% for self-reported stuttering was identified in the sample.
- Self-reported stutterers exhibited a higher prevalence of minor brain injury/dysfunction, developmental dyslexia history, word-finding difficulties, and depressive symptoms compared to non-stutterers.
Conclusions:
- Self-reported stuttering in university students is associated with a higher likelihood of neurological and psychological conditions.
- Findings suggest a potential link between stuttering and factors such as brain injury, dyslexia, and depression, warranting further investigation.