DATA AVAILABILITY : The data that support the findings of this study are not
openly available due to reasons of sensitivity and confidentiality.BACKGROUND : Stuttering support groups (SSGs) have been a long-standing invaluable resource
for people who stutter (PWS) but research into SSGs is only emerging. Speech-language
therapists (SLTs) need further insight to successfully facilitate SSGs.
OBJECTIVES : To determine PWS’ perspectives regarding why they attend SSGs in South Africa.
METHOD : Thirteen PWS who attend SSGs, between 20 and 58 years old, were a part of this
qualitative study. Purposive sampling was utilised. Semi-structured telephonic interviews
were used and data was analysed thematically.
RESULTS : Four themes, namely, ‘altered perceptions’, ‘increased sense of community’,
‘support group reciprocity’, and ‘support group environment, participants and topics’, were
identified. The results yielded clinical implications which included SLTs encouraging: (1)
improved perceptions of being a PWS through education and self-empowerment, (2) PWS’
connections between meetings to increase the sense of community, (3) reciprocity in
meetings, (4) sharing personal stories to promote learning and general self-management and
(5) support, praise and education to empower and encourage PWS. This study’s findings
show that SSGs helped PWS accept their stutter and gain confidence. This study showcased
how SSGs can help PWS manage their fluency and gain confidence. Additionally, this study
supports current research which suggests that dysfluency and social-emotional well-being
should be equally addressed.
CONCLUSION : Recommendations were generated from PWS’ perspectives and included
focusing discussions on fluency, emotions and sharing personal stories. Insights from PWS
helped better inform SLTs of their role within SSGs including guiding and facilitating
conversations.
CONTRIBUTION : People who stutters’ perspectives can be used in clinical practice to help
SLTs meet the needs of PWS and guide best practice when facilitating SSGs.https://journals.co.za/journal/communicationam2024Speech-Language Pathology and AudiologySDG-03:Good heatlh and well-bein
