Repetitions

Definition

Repetitions refer to the involuntary utterance of sounds, syllables, or words during speech, often observed in individuals who stutter. This phenomenon can manifest as the repetition of phonemes, whole words, or phrases, creating disruptions in the normal flow of speech. Repetitions are a significant aspect of stuttering, as they can contribute to the frustration and anxiety experienced by those who struggle with fluency.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Repetitions can occur at any point in speech but are most commonly seen at the beginning of words or sentences.
2. Individuals may repeat sounds (e.g., 'b-b-b-ball'), whole words (e.g., 'I-I-I want'), or phrases (e.g., 'Can I-can I-can I go?').
3. Repetitions can be accompanied by other disfluencies such as prolongations or blocks, making speech even more challenging.
4. Emotional factors like anxiety or stress can increase the frequency of repetitions during speaking situations.
5. Treatment for stuttering may include techniques that help reduce the occurrence of repetitions and improve overall fluency.

Review Questions

• How do repetitions contribute to the overall experience of someone who stutters?
  • Repetitions are a core feature of stuttering and can significantly impact an individual's communication experience. They disrupt the natural flow of speech, making it difficult for individuals to express themselves clearly. Additionally, these interruptions can lead to increased feelings of frustration and embarrassment, contributing to anxiety about speaking situations. This cycle of disfluency can further exacerbate the challenge of effective communication.
• What role do emotional factors play in the frequency of repetitions in individuals who stutter?
  • Emotional factors such as anxiety and stress can greatly influence the occurrence of repetitions in individuals who stutter. In high-pressure speaking situations, such as public speaking or conversations with authority figures, the likelihood of experiencing repetitions increases. This heightened emotional state can lead to a greater awareness of disfluencies, which may create a vicious cycle where anxiety about speaking causes more disfluencies, including repetitions.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of current therapeutic approaches in reducing repetitions for individuals with stuttering.
  • Current therapeutic approaches for stuttering include techniques like fluency shaping and cognitive-behavioral therapy, both aimed at reducing repetitions and improving overall speech fluency. Fluency shaping focuses on teaching smoother speech patterns and reducing tension during speaking. Cognitive-behavioral therapy addresses the emotional aspects associated with stuttering. Evaluating their effectiveness shows promising results; many individuals report a decrease in repetitions and improved confidence in their speech abilities. Continued research is necessary to adapt these approaches for varying needs.

Related terms

Stuttering: A speech disorder characterized by disruptions in the normal flow of speech, including repetitions, prolongations, and blocks.

Fluency: The smoothness and ease of speech, which can be affected by various factors including stuttering and repetitions.

Secondary behaviors: Physical behaviors that may develop in response to stuttering, often as coping mechanisms, such as blinking or head jerking.