Praxis SLP Licensure Exam

What best describes Paul, who grappled with stuttering but managed to conceal it in social situations?

1. Paul exhibits hysterical stuttering

2. Paul should have had behaviorally focused therapy

3. Paul should maintain his current level of fluency

4. Paul is a covert stutterer

The correct answer is: Paul is a covert stutterer

The most fitting description of Paul is that he is a covert stutterer. Covert stuttering refers to individuals who struggle with stuttering but develop strategies to hide or conceal their disfluencies in social situations. This may include avoiding certain words or situations, using fillers, or altering their speech patterns to mask their stuttering. Paul’s ability to manage and conceal his stuttering indicates he has adapted to his condition while still experiencing the challenges associated with it. In contrast, the other options do not align with the provided context. Hysterical stuttering is a less common term often associated with emotional trauma rather than the typical speech patterns seen in covert stuttering. Behaviorally focused therapy is a treatment option but does not pertain directly to Paul’s ability to manage his stuttering in social settings. Maintaining his current level of fluency implies a sense of satisfaction or stability with his speech, while covert stuttering typically involves an ongoing struggle with speech challenges, even if outwardly masked. Hence, the characterization of Paul as a covert stutterer accurately reflects his experience.