An Approach to Study Stuttering with Reference to Intelligence and Ego-Strength

Description

Page: 1797-1800

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17829188

Sandhya Prasad and Sajid Parwez (Department of Psychology, Sona Devi University, Ghatsila, Jharkhand)

Stuttering is a speech fluency disorder that not only affects verbal communication but also plays a significant role in shaping an individual’s personality development. Difficulties in expressing thoughts smoothly often lead to anxiety, avoidance, social withdrawal, and reduced self-confidence among people who stutter. These challenges may negatively influence their self-concept and emotional resilience. At the same time, many individuals who stutter develop adaptive qualities such as perseverance, empathy, and patience, reflecting the complex interaction between communication difficulties and personality growth. The present study examines differences in Ego-strength and Intelligence between adults who stutter and those who do not. The sample consisted of 80 participants, including 30 stutterers and 30 non-stutterers, matched for age, sex, and educational level. Raven’s Progressive Matrices and the Ego-Strength Scale were used as assessment tools. Results revealed a significant difference in Ego-strength, with stutterers scoring lower than non-stutterers, suggesting greater emotional vulnerability and reduced perceived coping ability among individuals who stutter. However, no significant difference was found in intelligence levels between the two groups, confirming that stuttering does not impair cognitive functioning. The findings highlight the importance of integrating psychological counselling with speech therapy to strengthen self-concept and emotional resilience in people who stutter.