Basic Psychological Needs in Stuttering and Non-stuttering Iranian Students Aged 13 to 17 Years

Abstract

This study seeks to answer the question: "What is the difference between the basic psychological needs (survival, love and belonging, power, freedom, and fun) of stuttering and non-stuttering students?" Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted on 15 stuttering students aged 13 to 17 years as the case group and 15 non-stuttering students (13 males and two females) aged 13 to 17 years as the control group. The formal validity, reliability, and internal consistency of the questionnaire were assessed. Results: Analysis showed significant differences between the two groups in need of love and belonging, and fun (P<0.001) and stuttering students showed more desire for love, belonging, and fun. Furthermore; analysis indicated insignificant differences between two groups in survival, power, and freedom needs (P<0.001). Conclusion: Stuttering students are more in need of love and belonging; that is, the need for relationships, social connections, giving and receiving affection, and feeling to be a part of a group. They, moreover, need more to find pleasure, to play, and to laugh.