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Traits attributed to stuttering and normally fluent males
Journal of Speech and Hearing Research
|June 1, 1976
Summary
A prevalent and unfavorable stereotype of people who stutter exists, regardless of an individual's exposure to stuttering. This study found that perceived traits for male children and adults who stutter are similar.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Speech-Language Pathology
Background:
- Stereotypes can significantly impact social perceptions and interactions.
- Understanding stereotypes related to stuttering is crucial for effective support and intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the existence and nature of a stereotype surrounding stutterers.
- To examine whether varying levels of exposure to stuttering influence this stereotype.
Main Methods:
- Seven subject groups with diverse exposure to stuttering rated four concepts (typical male, typical male stutterer, typical adult male, typical adult male stutterer) using a 25-scale semantic differential.
- Scales were based on terms identified by speech clinicians as descriptive of stutterers and their antonyms.
Main Results:
- A strong, predominantly unfavorable stereotype of stutterers' personal characteristics was identified.
- The stereotype remained consistent across groups, irrespective of their level of exposure to individuals who stutter.
- Attributed traits for male children and adult males who stutter were found to be similar.
Conclusions:
- A pervasive and negative stereotype of stutterers exists.
- This stereotype is largely independent of personal experience or exposure to stuttering.
- The findings have implications for public perception and interventions for stuttering.