DEAR DR. GOTT: “The King’s Speech” movie has everyone talking about stuttering. We at The Stuttering Foundation are seeing a four-fold increase in inquiries. So are therapists. Please consider answering the simple question, “What is stuttering?” for the benefit of your readers. Our website, www.StutteringHelp.org, has a trove of helpful materials and can make referrals. President Jane Fraser can offer thoughts and advice. I’ve searched your site and did not see any information on stuttering. Thank you.

DEAR READER: I have not written about stuttering since 2009.

Stuttering, sometimes known as stammering, is a communication disorder. It is characterized by repetition, prolongation or abnormal stoppages in the flow of the speech. It can also be associated with unusual facial or body movements that occur when having difficulty speaking. Stuttering is not a sign of reduced mental capacity or intelligence.
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