THE COMMUNICATIVE EXPERIENCES OF STAMMERERS IN IGBO CULTURAL AREA: AN INVESTIGATIVE STUDY

Abstract

This study investigates the cultural and social factors that influence the communication experiences of Igbo individuals who stammer. Using a qualitative research design, in-depth interviews were conducted with five Igbo individuals who stammer to gather data on the onset of their stammering, communication experiences, the social and cultural factors affecting their speech, and the coping mechanisms they employ. The findings reveal that environmental practices, social attitudes, and reactions play significant roles in shaping the communication experiences of Igbo individuals who stammer. Environmental factors, such as changes in linguistic context, can contribute to the development of stammering. Emotional states like anxiety and anger can exacerbate stammering, negatively affecting an individual’s self-esteem and confidence. Coping strategies, such as avoiding speaking in crowds, are often employed to reduce anxiety and minimize the likelihood of stammering episodes. Cultural attitudes also play a crucial role: when supportive and non-stigmatizing, they can help reduce the social burden of stammering and enhance coping abilities. In this study, the participants reported that positive cultural attitudes contributed to their ability to manage stammering. The study highlights the importance of culturally sensitive assessment and treatment approaches, as well as education and awareness programs aimed at reducing stigma and increasing support for Igbo individuals who stammer. The implications of these findings for speech-language pathology practice and future research are discussed.