Covert Stuttering: Investigation of the Paradigm Shift From Covertly Stuttering to Overtly Stuttering

Abstract

Purpose Covert stuttering is a type of stuttering experience that occurs when a person who stutters conceals his or her stutter from others, attempting to be perceived as a nonstuttering individual. A person who covertly stutters experiences the cognitive and emotional elements of stuttering with minimum overt behavioral symptoms. Individuals who covertly stutter are able to provide insight into their experiences in attempting to be perceived as nonstuttering individuals. Covert stuttering is a topic that continues to be in need of a formal definition. The current investigation is utilizing thematic analysis to provide a detail-rich investigation of the paradigm shift from covertly stuttering to overtly stuttering. Method The current investigation is a qualitative analysis of individuals' transition process from covertly stuttering to overtly stuttering. Real-time video interviews were conducted with the use of open-ended phenomenological interview questions. Interviews were transcribed, and thematic analysis of interview transcripts was conducted to investigate the covertly to overtly stuttering process for participants. Results The findings provide insight into a paradigm shift that occurs when individuals who covertly stutter begin to outwardly identify themselves and allow for overt stuttering. The primary theme was a paradigm shift in the 6 participants' mindset regarding stuttering; additional details are provided in the subthemes: attending speech therapy, meeting other people who stutter, and a psychological low point. The details of the covert-to-overt stuttering conversion are documented with the use of direct quotations. Conclusion The evidence suggests the various intricacies of the experiences of persons who are covert. Clinical implications of these findings for assessing and treating individuals who covertly stutter are discussed.

Outcomes of Telepractice Speech Therapy for an Adult who Covertly Stutters: A Case Study

“…Douglass et al (2019) reported that "passing as fluent" has been used interchangeably with the concept of covert stuttering; however, it should be noted that "passing as fluent" describes how a speaker is perceived by the listener whereas "covert stuttering" may specifically refer to moments of stuttering in which the speaker successfully conceals their stutter. Douglass et al (2018) suggested that the awareness or anticipation of an overt stuttering behavior may result in the selection of a covert stuttering behavior as a coping mechanism in reaction to negative listener responses, feeling of physical discomfort or tension, or feeling a loss of control over speech production. Covert stuttering behaviors may include strategies such as the use of interjections, scanning ahead in speech, abandoning a stuttered utterance, or even silence (Constantino et al, 2017;Douglass et al, 2018).…”

“…Douglass et al (2018) suggested that the awareness or anticipation of an overt stuttering behavior may result in the selection of a covert stuttering behavior as a coping mechanism in reaction to negative listener responses, feeling of physical discomfort or tension, or feeling a loss of control over speech production. Covert stuttering behaviors may include strategies such as the use of interjections, scanning ahead in speech, abandoning a stuttered utterance, or even silence (Constantino et al, 2017;Douglass et al, 2018). Douglass et al (2018) noted that people who stutter have been described to be in a "state of constancy" where they experience heightened, constant awareness of potential stuttering moments.…”

“…Covert stuttering behaviors may include strategies such as the use of interjections, scanning ahead in speech, abandoning a stuttered utterance, or even silence (Constantino et al, 2017;Douglass et al, 2018). Douglass et al (2018) noted that people who stutter have been described to be in a "state of constancy" where they experience heightened, constant awareness of potential stuttering moments. This constant awareness of stuttering and attempts to conceal their stutter can lead to negative affective, cognitive and emotional impacts for the speaker.…”

“…Stuttering is a fluency disorder characterized by both overt and covert behaviors which result in disruptions in the flow of speech production. Overt stuttering behaviors may include prolongations, single-syllable or whole-word repetitions, and/or blocks (Bloodstein & Ratner, 2008); whereas covert stuttering behaviors may include avoidance of stuttering, mentally scanning ahead for possible moments of stuttering when speaking, as well as using interjections or verbal starters (e.g., Constantino et al2017;Douglass et al, 2018). People who stutter (PWS) often present with a combination of both overt and covert stuttering behaviors which may have an impact on their communication and overall quality of life (e.g., Yaruss, 2010;Constantino et al, 2017).…”

Iceberg or cut off – how adults who stutter articulate fluent-sounding utterances

“…affected individuals hiding their speech impediment. Such individuals often develop highly skilled avoidance behavior, despite which many carry a high emotional burden, others are very dysfluent but not regard themselves as stuttering, at least not in public (Douglass, Schwab, and Alvarado 2018).…”