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From: Libby Oyler
Date: 10/15/03
Time: 11:28:37 PM
Remote Name: 209.105.186.241
Kristina, I do believe and research supports that PWS do have a neurological predisposition for stuttering. True, we know of no one cause of stuttering, but we are aware of risk factors that PWS seem to be born with and tend to accompany those who stutter. Although the different risk factors seem to have different weighting and PWS are a heterogeneous group. However, temperamental sensitivity does appear to be a more homogeneous trait. I do not believe that sensitivity causes one to stutter, however I would not be surprised if heightened sensitivity helps to maintain stuttering behavior. My research (1999) suggests that CWS tend to come into the world with a more sensitive temperament and CNS, which will be there whether the person stutters or not. At the same time, the experience of stuttering probably does influence some increase in sensitivity (which is already there) as time passes. Skillful speech therapy is crucial for PWS, but especially for young children who may be able to recover if appropriate speech therapy is offered at a young age (as close to onset as possible). Guitar (1999) also writes about this phenomenon, and Elaine Aron's (2002) book, The Highly Sensitive Child, will give you invaluable information on heightened sensitivity in children.