Theoretical Perspectives on the Cause of Stuttering

CONTEMPORARY ISSUES IN COMMUNICATION SCIENCE AND DISORDERS • Volume 31 • 80–91 • Spring 2004 © NSSLHA 1092-5171/04/3101-0080 ABSTRACT: The many theories of the cause of stuttering are too numerous to mention. Instead, this article presents a brief background of theories in the realms of psychology, learning theory, and biology. A representative sampling of older literature is discussed, followed by a more detailed consideration of a few state-of-the-art studies. The article concludes that previously presented general models can provide a basis for testable hypotheses. Current research appears to indicate that there is a genetic basis for stuttering, affecting both motor and sensory systems in the brain in subtle ways, and that deficits are exacerbated by a host of both other genetic as well as environmental factors. Genetic, physiologic, psychologic, and environmental influences guide the developmental pathway of stuttering.