Project Abstract
This research project aims to elucidate the neural basis of developmental stuttering. While popular theories have related the origin of stuttering to psychological problems, recent studies have shown differences in brain structure and function between those who stutter and those who speak fluently, indicating a neural cause. However, we do not know if these differences in brain functioning are the key components of the long searched for cause of stuttering or if they represent neural changes due to many years of compensating for stuttering. We now hope to determine in which areas of the brain, and in which sequence, differences in neural processing occur between people who stutter and those who speak fluently. This information will improve diagnostic possibilities and may lead to the development of innovative treatments for stuttering. For this research project, we will work with adults with persistent developmental stuttering, as well as with adults who speak fluently. Participants will be asked to perform s
