The Prof Is In

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Finishing Words for a Stutterer

From: Pam
Date: 07 Oct 2009
Time: 10:01:56 -0500
Remote Name: 163.153.6.70

Comments

Hi all! I had an interesting conversation with a good friend who stutters last night. He was describing a tough speech day he had. I encouraged him to share what had been frustrating for him. He blocked on a word, for longer than he can ever remember doing. He felt uncomfortable, because his listener was an authority figure. My friend was unable to finish the word, and the listener cotrectly guessed what he meant and supplied the word. My friend casually said, "sorry for that" to his listener. I found myself gently chastising my friend, that he should not have to apologize for stuttering. He said he wasn't - that use of the word sorry inthis context was just acknowledging that it may have been inconenient for the listener. I have heard PWS apologize for stuttering, and wonder where this really comes from. Is it shame? Or are we just unconsciously trying to account for the longer time it takes to speak when stuttering. I also don't like it when people supply words or phrases for me, assuming that are being helpful. But some PWS have told me (in my blog - it was a lively topic on there) that its not such a bad thing to have a listener finish the words. It helps move the conversation forward. Thoughts?


Last changed: 10/23/09