Frequently Asked Questions
Is stuttering caused by anxiety?
- No. Stuttering is most likely due to a neural processing difficulty and also has a genetic component. See section on the ‘Causes of
stuttering'. 11
Is a child who stutters any less intelligent?
- No. There is no connection between the cause of stuttering and intelligence. A child who stutters is no less intelligent than a child who does not stutter. 11
Are people who stutter nervous and shy? 
- No, your personality affects whether you are nervous and shy, not your stuttering. 11
Can stuttering be treated?
- Yes, stuttering can be treated very effectively in pre-school children. 11
Can children commence therapy for stuttering before starting school?
- Yes, preschool children have achieved the best results in therapy. 11
How long does therapy usually take?
- The time taken to complete the treatment differs between children, but is usually between 6-24 visits. 4
Is stuttering caused by something that parents do?
- No, parent interaction does not affect the development of stuttering. 13
Will children outgrow stuttering?
- Yes, sometimes. However, it is difficult to predict who will grow out of stuttering and who will not. It is therefore best to seek the advice of a Speech Pathologist - early assessment is vital!13
Can listening to a parent or sibling stutter cause a young child to stutter?
- Stuttering is not caused by exposure to other stutterers – it's not contagious!! 13