Which therapeutic focus is most appropriate to address fluency issues in adults who stutter?

Promoting open-stuttering practices is the most appropriate therapeutic focus for addressing fluency issues in adults who stutter because it encourages the individual to accept and openly express their stuttering. This approach is rooted in the idea that by acknowledging and embracing their stuttering, individuals can reduce the fear and anxiety associated with speaking. Open-stuttering practices often involve techniques that help individuals stutter more freely and without avoidance behaviors. As a result, this can lead to increased comfort during communication, fostering a more positive relationship with their speech.

Developing open-stuttering practices may involve exercises that allow the person to explore their stuttering openly, which can contribute to desensitization to the experience and reduce anticipatory anxiety. This therapeutic strategy aligns well with contemporary fluency therapy methods that aim to not only improve speech fluency but also enhance overall communication confidence and self-acceptance.