How to React When Speaking With Someone Who Stutters

(The following is a brochure produced by the Stuttering Foundation of America. It is reproduced here with permission and may be downloaded for individual use providing credit is given to the SFA)

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• Refrain from making remarks like: "Slow down," "Take a breath," or "Relax." Such simplistic advice can be felt as demeaning and is not helpful.
• You will be very tempted to finish sentences or fill in words. Try not to do this.
• Maintain natural eye contact, and try not to look embarrassed. Just wait patiently and naturally until the person is finished.
• Use a relatively slow, relaxed rate in your own conversational speech - but not so slow as to sound unnatural.
• Let the person know by your manner and actions that you are listening to WHAT he or she says - not HOW they say it.
• Be aware that those who stutter usually have more trouble controlling their speech on the telephone. Please be extra patient in this situation. If you pick up the phone and hear nothing, be sure it is not a person who stutters trying to initiate the conversation before you hang up.