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Semin Speech Lang 2018; 39(04): 342-355
DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1667163
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

How Speech–Language Pathologists Can Minimize Bullying of Children Who Stutter

J. Scott Yaruss
1   Department of Communicative Sciences and Disorders, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
,
Nina Reeves
2   Frisco Independent Schools, Frisco, Texas
,
Caryn Herring
1   Department of Communicative Sciences and Disorders, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
24 August 2018 (online)

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Abstract

Stuttering can be a significant problem for children who stutter, but there is much that speech–language pathologists can do to help. This article summarizes six key steps, based on the work of Murphy and colleagues, that clinicians can take to minimize the occurrence and impact of bullying for children who stutter: (1) educating children about stuttering; (2) educating children about bullying; (3) helping children change the way they think and feel about their stuttering through desensitization, cognitive restructuring, and acceptance activities; (4) helping children learn to use appropriately assertive responses that decrease the likelihood of bullying; (5) educating peers and bystanders about stuttering and bullying so that they are more likely to respond in helpful ways; and (6) educating parents, teachers, and administrators about how they can create an environment where it is not okay to bully, but it is okay to stutter.

Keywords

Stuttering - communication disorders - therapy - bullying - treatment strategies

Disclosures

J.S.Y. receives royalties as coauthor of materials related to bullying and stuttering therapy published by Stuttering Therapy Resources, Inc., which he co-owns with Nina Reeves. He receives speaker fees for continuing education courses on the topic from MedBridge Education. He has no relevant nonfinancial relationships to disclose.


N.R. receives royalties and ownership interest in Stuttering Therapy Resources, Inc. She has no relevant nonfinancial relationships to disclose.


C.H. is on the board of directors of Friends – The National Association of Young People Who Stutter. She has no relevant nonfinancial relationships to disclose.


 

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