Avoidance Reduction Therapy for School-Age Children Who Stutter

Abstract

Avoidance Reduction Therapy for Stuttering (ARTS) is a behavioral therapy for children and adults that incorporates speech therapy and counseling to reduce learned physical and socioemotional struggle that constitute the problem for the stutterer.[a] While stuttering is a neurodevelopmental difference, efforts to mask a stigmatized identity can contribute to avoidance, shame, and fear of speaking. This article provides theoretical foundations for therapy principles, describes the processes of self-acceptance and change, and outlines therapy goals and activities using child-friendly explanations and case study vignettes.

Keywords

stuttering - acceptance - avoidance reduction - children - therapy

^a The authors recognize that the use of person-first language (“person who stutters”) or identify-first language (“stutterer”) is an individual choice expressed by many in the stuttering community. We have chosen to use identify-first language consistently in this article.

Publikationsverlauf

Artikel online veröffentlicht:
13. Juni 2022

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