Understanding how emotions affect stuttering in young children

Early childhood stuttering and risk for persistence: The impact of emotion on speech and cognitive control

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11136530

This study looks at how kids aged 2 to 5 who stutter react to their emotions and how that might affect their speech, with the goal of finding new ways to help them manage stuttering as they grow.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11136530 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between emotional reactivity and the persistence of stuttering in children aged 2 to 5 years. By examining how emotions influence speech preparation and production, the study aims to identify new biomarkers and therapeutic strategies for children at risk of ongoing stuttering. The approach includes assessing both cognitive control and emotional responses in children who stutter, utilizing novel methodologies to enhance prediction accuracy for stuttering persistence.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are children aged 2 to 5 years who exhibit early signs of stuttering.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than 5 years or those who do not exhibit stuttering symptoms may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prediction and intervention strategies for children who stutter, ultimately enhancing their social and educational outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of emotional factors in speech disorders, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.