Many factors contribute to stuttering

To the editor:

We read with interest your Aug. 6 article, "Lawsuit filed over 1939 experiment to induce stuttering," regarding the research on stuttering and orphans.

In the intervening years, no research has demonstrated that labeling someone a stutterer or criticizing his speech alone leads to the development of stuttering, nor does this study.

Modern research indicates that genetics, neurophysiology, child development and family dynamics all play a role. The balance of these factors in the development of stuttering is also different for each child.

Your readers should know that there are many resources available to help those with this complex and often misunderstood speech disorder.

For more information, call the Stuttering Foundation Helpline at 800-992-9392 or visit us on our Web site, www.stutteringhelp.org.

JANE FRASER

President

The Stuttering Foundation

Memphis, Tenn.