Temperament and early stuttering intervention: Two perspectives

Abstract

PurposeTo discuss clinical applications of research findings about temperament and early stuttering. MethodA “1000-bytes” format (Onslow & Millard, 2012) was used to provide readers with contemporaneous observation of a “conversation” between the authors. The conversation is proceeded by a prologue and followed by concluding statements from each author. ResultsOne author contended that comprehensive, multidimensional assessment of temperament domains is essential during clinical management of early stuttering, and the results of that assessment are best incorporated into a multifactorial treatment approach. The other author contested that view, arguing that such an approach is not empirically justifiable at present. ConclusionsThe authors agree about the salience of research on temperament and early stuttering but have different perspectives about the topic when applied to providing health care for early stuttering.