Specialization in Stuttering.
During the second week of August 2018 I attended the face-to-face week of the Diploma in Disfluences that I have been studying. It was the culmination of months of continuous study of stuttering and other speech fluency disorders. I decided to specialize so that I could provide my patients with an evidence-based approach. The approach that many therapists still take to stuttering is outdated and there is little evidence of its effectiveness.
The Universidad de Concepción in Chile is one of the universities with the greatest tradition and prestige in this country. It stands out for its investigative extension in diverse areas of knowledge. It is the third oldest university in Chile and in charge of training excellent phonoaudiologists.
During 6 consecutive days we shared knowledge and extremely enriching clinical experiences. We were able to meet and share with colleagues from Argentina, Chile, Peru, Mexico, Portugal, Brazil and the United States.
In addition to the specialization, I had the opportunity to attend the II International Seminar of Disfluences where diverse professionals of the continent shared presentations and experiences that broadened our vision of the disorder. Both events were held at the University's School of Medicine.
What is stuttering?
Disfluencies are disorders that affect speech fluency. The most common fluidity disorder is stuttering. It is because of this disorder that we receive more consultations. Did you know that 1% of the world's population has stuttering? Also that 5% of the child population begins to present disfluencies at an early age?
Disfluenced speech is characterized by interrupted speech. There are repetitions of sounds, prolongations or blockages. We can also find associated facial and body movements, vocal tension or alterations in respiratory patterns.
Disfluencies usually manifest early around age 3. However, they can also manifest later when the child goes through linguistic peaks. For example, school age or even adolescence (rarely appears in adulthood).
This appearance is variable and can appear suddenly or gradually and is more common in men, at a ratio of 4 to 1. (more...)