Mental well-being and related factors in individuals with stuttering

AIM: This study aimed to determine the effects of various sociodemographic variables and experiences, unhelpful beliefs about stuttering, and perceived social support on psychological well-being in stuttering adults. METHODS: Forty-five stuttering adults were included in our study, and sociodemographic data were collected using a stuttering experiences information form, the Unhelpful Thoughts and Beliefs About Stuttering (UTBAS)-6 scale, the perceived social support scale, and the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale. RESULTS: It was determined that the total score of the UTBAS scale, the high scores on the fear of negative evaluation, avoidance, self-doubt and insecurity, and the hopelessness subscales, and the low scores of the perceived social support scale were correlated with lower psychological well-being results in stuttering individuals. CONCLUSIONS: To support the mental well-being of individuals with stuttering, we believe it would be beneficial to provide mental assessment and supportive approaches, raise awareness to eliminate prejudice and stigmatizing attitudes toward individuals with stuttering in the family and wider society, and develop social support systems, alongside speech therapy.