The simple answer is yes. It is classified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders V (DSM-V). Stuttering can be a diagnosed mental disorder generally progressing from childhood. This is termed “childhood-onset fluency disorder”. However, stuttering can also be a symptom of another mental disorder and would not be considered a separate disorder.
It is important to note that although it is classified as a mental disorder for purposes of treatment and medical billing, it is not indicative of diminished mental capacity. People who stutter are linked to increased instances of other mental health diagnoses. This suggests stuttering is a symptom of underlying mental issues such as an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It does not mean everyone who stutters could be properly labeled as autistic. Differential diagnosis by a trained professional is needed to determine the appropriate mental designation.
The exact causes of stuttering are not known. It does run in families, suggesting a genetic link. However, it can also be brought on by other medical conditions such as a stroke or brain injury. In such an instance, it is not a mental disorder, but a symptom of a physical condition. Emotional trauma may also cause stuttering. Once again, the stuttering is treated as a symptom of the mental disorder.
Classifying stuttering as a mental disorder is a controversial topic. There is a movement to change the classification in order to remove some of the stigma from stuttering. Due to the nature of the problem, people who stutter often suffer from social harassment and may feel the label of mental disorder causes more harm than good.
No comments:
Post a Comment