Is Stuttering Therapy Useful for Adolescents and Adults with Down Syndrome who are Dysfluent?

BackgroundPeople with Down syndrome are known to have specific speech difficulties including dysfluencies.AimsThis paper aims to explore the possibilities of therapeutic intervention for this client group.Methods and proceduresA theoretical discussion of speech and cognition in people with Down syndrome is followed by a qualitative study exploring communication and related issues for 14 young people and their parents.Outcomes and ResultsA pattern of immature self and speech-awareness emerged. Negative feelings towards a breakdown in communication were expressed.Conclusions and implicationsThe pattern of difficulties found suggests that ‘traditional’ stuttering therapy must be carefully individualized when applied to people with Down syndrome.