Introduction
Stuttering is often misunderstood and misrepresented in society. The research article, “‘Satan is holding your tongue back’: Stuttering as moral failure,” by Dane H. Isaacs, provides a critical examination of how stuttering is often perceived as a moral failure, leading to discrimination and oppression. This blog aims to provide practitioners with insights on how to improve their skills by understanding the outcomes of this research and encouraging further exploration into the disability studies approach.
The Liminal Nature of Stuttering
Isaacs' research highlights the liminal nature of stuttering, where individuals are neither clearly abled nor disabled. This ambiguity often leads to expectations that people who stutter should perform at the same level as fluent speakers, resulting in feelings of being a "misfit" in social environments. This perspective can lead to internalized oppression, where individuals who stutter may internalize societal negative attitudes towards their speech.
Stuttering as a Moral Failure
The article argues that stuttering is often interpreted as a moral failure, a lack of willpower or self-discipline. This interpretation perpetuates stigma and discrimination, both from able-bodied individuals and from those who stutter. The research suggests that as long as stuttering is viewed through this lens, the stigma and oppression will continue to be unaddressed.
Adopting a Disability Studies Approach
To combat these issues, Isaacs advocates for a shift towards a disability studies approach. This approach emphasizes understanding stuttering within its social and political context, rather than as an individual moral failing. By doing so, practitioners can better address the social and disabling nature of stuttering and promote the social inclusion and rights of individuals who stutter.
Practical Implications for Practitioners
- Encourage a supportive environment that acknowledges the social challenges faced by individuals who stutter.
- Advocate for policies that promote inclusion and accommodate diversity in communication styles.
- Engage in continuous education and research to stay informed about the latest developments in disability studies related to stuttering.
- Collaborate with disability rights advocates to design effective intervention strategies that go beyond fluency and address broader psychosocial needs.
Conclusion
Understanding stuttering through a disability studies lens allows practitioners to create more inclusive and supportive environments for individuals who stutter. By moving away from viewing stuttering as a moral failure, we can better address the stigma and discrimination associated with it. For practitioners looking to improve their skills, embracing this approach is a crucial step forward.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: ‘Satan is holding your tongue back’: Stuttering as moral failure.
