Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Neurogenic stuttering (NS) is the most frequently occurring acquired
form of stuttering in children and adults. This form of stuttering is primarily caused
by neurological incidents. Owing to controversies with regard to similarities between
developmental stuttering (DS) and NS symptomatology, differential diagnosis is
problematic. Differential diagnosis will guide the appropriate management of persons
who stutter (PWS).
OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to describe and highlight the characteristics of NS in
order to compile a preliminary checklist for accurate diagnosis and intervention.
METHOD: An explorative, applied mixed method, multiple case study research design was
followed. Purposive sampling was used to select four participants. A comprehensive
assessment battery was compiled for data collection.
RESULTS: The results revealed a distinct pattern of core stuttering behaviours in NS, although
discrepancies existed regarding stuttering severity and frequency. It was also found that
DS and NS can co-occur. The case history and the core stuttering pattern are important
considerations during differential diagnosis, as these are the only consistent characteristics in
people with NS.
CONCLUSION: It is unlikely that all the symptoms of NS are present in an individual. The
researchers scrutinised the findings of this study and the findings of previous literature to
compile a potentially workable checklist.
