Does Language Ability Predict Natural Recovery From Stuttering?

Purpose: This review article examines the proposal that language ability is a predictor or associate of natural recovery from stuttering. Specifically, this is the claim that preschool children who stutter (CWS) but have strong language skills are more likely to recover from this disorder naturally (without professional treatment) than those who have weaker language skills. Method: Studies that investigated this proposal are described, and their findings are reported in an effort to achieve greater clarity regarding this claim. The review includes studies that were published in peer-reviewed research journals in English since 1996. Results: Collectively, studies of language ability and natural recovery from stuttering have yielded mixed results. Although some studies found evidence to support an association, others did not, and still others yielded only partial support. Possible explanations for the complex and inconsistent findings are discussed, and suggestions are offered for speech-language pathologists who work with CWS. Conclusions: Language ability in preschool children is not a consistent or robust predictor or associate of natural recovery from stuttering. For this reason, it is risky to assume that a young child who stutters but has strong language skills is likely to recover from stuttering naturally and therefore does not require professional treatment for this disorder.