Parents recounting their journey with stuttering: A preliminary exploration of experiences and adaptation

Background/purpose

Parents' attitudes and emotions toward stuttering have the potential to impact their reactions to their child's speech. Many parents lack sufficient knowledge about stuttering, which often leads to guilt, uncertainty, and helplessness when their child begins to stutter. However, these experiences may evolve later. This study aimed to explore parents' experiences, as well as their reflections on how these experiences have changed since the onset.

Method

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 5 parents of individuals who stutter, and 9 other parents chose to complete an anonymous online survey with similar questions. Content analysis was used to identify patterns in parents’ experiences, and thematic analysis was used to delineate the components of their change and adaptation process.

Results

Four main themes emerged: 1) dynamic emotions of parents, reflecting the fluctuating feelings parents experienced; 2) social compromises, where parents made sacrifices because of their child’s stuttering; 3) proactive and protective parenting, involving efforts to support and protect their child; and 4) beyond stuttering, emphasizing the recognition of the child's strengths. Furthermore, a preliminary framework was developed to describe parents' process of adaptation, encompassing six components: emotional struggles, concern and uncertainty, transition to action, seeking support and education, preparation and empowerment, and acceptance. These components were experienced in a non-linear fashion.

Conclusion

This study enhances our understanding of the socio-emotional journey that parents undergo in relation to their child's stuttering. The findings highlight the need for interventions that support both the child and the family and address the challenges parents face.