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From: Ellen-Marie Silverman
Date: 07 Oct 2007
Time: 19:26:48 -0500
Remote Name: 64.12.117.14
[[". . . I think there is a lot of truth to the fact that people don't like to change unless they are forced to change. But I am a firm believer in that some change is good. I think counseling families explaining to them that change can be good is important. In our field, however, stuttering often results from some change in a child's life. I think this is when it gets difficult trying to explain to a parent why their child might be stuttering. It is a challenging trying to find that balance."]] >>> Hello, Jill. Thank you for sharing your thinking about change and counseling parents of young children who may have stuttering problems. Let me say, that I whole-heartedly agree that many of us may not choose to take required action to change our thinking and actions until we feel forced to do so for whatever reason(s). And we rarely like it as we go through the process, but, afterward, when we can see how better off we are (hopefully) than we were, i.e., that we have developed greater self-acceptance and confidence, we have become stronger morally and emotionally, and we feel more comfortable interacting at work and with family and friends, we like what we have accomplished. But let's not kid ourselves: Going through the process can and usually is pretty rough, especially as we get older. That is why we need to freely draw on all resources --- books, articles, audio CD'S, DVD'S, and our faith, family, and friends as well as professional assistance as needed --- to bolster us during the courageous journey upon which we have embarked. I could say so much more, but I think you get the idea. If not, please post another question or two. >>> About counseling parents of young children who may be developing a stuttering problem: I think it is generally fair to say that we often don't know exactly why their child is stuttering at any given time, but we, with their help, can determine when and where and how and how often they do stutter. Behaviorally, that is very useful information. Guesses as to why they are stuttering, not so much behaviorally. >>> Sorry, but I can not write any longer right now. If you want to dialogue further on these two points, please feel free to do so. Thanks again for sharing your thoughts and expressing your interest in "Creating Conditions for Change." Sincerely, Ellen-Marie Silverman