Combatting the Social Stigma of Speech Therapy
While attitudes have begun to change over recent years, there is still a social stigma surrounding communication challenges and the need for speech therapy. However, speech therapy has become more widespread and celebrated amongst individuals of all ages due to a better understanding of what speech therapy is and how it benefits people around the world.
Despite these significant changes and improvements in how speech therapy is viewed, there is still a lot of work to be done. Children who struggle to communicate commonly report being teased and bullied by their peers, and are often misunderstood by the adults in their lives. Communication difficulties can also impact adults, as they may become withdrawn, and anxious, and many will actively avoid situations that require communication.
It is common for people who struggle with speech, language, and communication to feel ashamed or embarrassed of their challenges and, as a result, may not seek proper treatment with a speech and language pathologist. Speech therapy is the best resource for anyone struggling to communicate and can be highly effective at improving the clarity and fluency of speech, expressive and receptive language skills, and social skills, as well as boosting overall confidence.
At Great Speech, we are committed to ending the stigma around speech therapy, and the best way we can do that is to increase awareness around what a speech therapist does and help individuals understand that there is no shame in working with a speech therapist to overcome communication barriers. Our online speech therapy services are convenient and accessible, so if you are ready to get started, simply schedule your free introductory call today!
Why Is There a Stigma Around Speech Therapy?
There are a few reasons why there is a social stigma surrounding speech therapy, including:
Speech Therapy Misconceptions - Some individuals may incorrectly connect a speech disorder with lower intelligence, often leading to unfair and inaccurate judgments and opinions and, subsequently, poor treatment of the individual with the speech disorder. This ignorant view of speech therapy can cause individuals who struggle with communication to feel shame or embarrassment and, as a result, may not be comfortable seeking professional help.
Peer Reactions, Teasing & Bullying - Children who receive speech therapy are often the target of bullying or teasing by their peers because of their communication differences and need for extra support. Adults can also be the target of unkind or hurtful comments. These reactions and negative attention from others can cause individuals to withdraw and avoid social situations.
Self-Esteem & Confidence - The social stigma around speech disorders and the need for speech therapy can have significant impacts on an individual’s self-esteem and the way they see themselves. Perhaps instances of bullying or negative attention in the past have been traumatic and left a permanent mark, causing many individuals to avoid seeking help and allowing negative feelings about themselves to take over.
Loved One & Parental Concerns - Some parents and loved ones of individuals who struggle to communicate experience feelings of concern and worry about a specific diagnosis and how that diagnosis will impact the life of the individual they care about. This can also cause parents to avoid seeking treatment for their child or feel reluctant about connecting with a speech and language pathologist. There is also often a fear that receiving a speech or language diagnosis may impact future opportunities or advancements.
Research has shown that the sooner an individual starts working with a qualified speech and language pathologist, the better the outcome. Don’t let negative thoughts or reactions stop you from reaching your goals; get started by scheduling your free introductory call today!
How Does Society Treat People With Speech and Language Disorders?
While things are changing for the better, many individuals with speech and language disorders still face unfair treatment, bullying, and prejudice. The social nature of communication is often impacted by disfluent or disordered speech, causing the individual to avoid socializing and interacting with others out of fear of being mistreated.
It is important to note that how individuals with speech and language disorders are treated can vary widely and often depends on several factors, including cultural attitudes, general awareness of speech differences, and individual experiences and perceptions.
Over the past decade or so, awareness surrounding speech and developmental differences has increased, and inclusivity and accessibility are better understood and more widely practiced than they once were.
How Does a Speech Impairment Affect Someone Socially?
Living with a speech impairment can have wide-reaching impacts on an individual’s ability to socialize and navigate social situations and interactions with confidence. Some of the most common social effects of a speech impairment include:
- Difficulty Expressing Thoughts, Ideas, and Feelings
- Reduced Ability to be Understood by Others
- Difficulty Interacting with Others and Engaging in Conversations
- Fear of Judgement or Being Misunderstood
- Low Self-Esteem
- Development of Social Anxiety and Stress
- Educational and Professional Limitations
- Difficulty Using and Interpreting Non-Verbal Communication
- Instances of Stereotyping, Bullying, and Discrimination
- Challenges Creating and Maintaining Meaningful Relationships
The above-listed impacts can profoundly affect an individual’s quality of life and ability to accomplish simple daily tasks. No one should experience discrimination or bullying because of a communication difference.
How Does Speech Therapy Help Socially?
Speech therapy can have a profound impact on social skills and quality of life for anyone who is struggling with effective communication. The goal of speech therapy is to remove obstacles, establish new skills, strengthen existing skills, and provide ongoing support and guidance to anyone who needs them. Speech therapy can help:
- Improve Speech Clarity & Articulation
- Reduce Stress & Anxiety
- Increase Confidence & Self Esteem
- Improve Conversation Skills
- Encourage Participation in Social Gatherings & Activities
Speech therapy that focuses on improving social skills will often include approaches and specific techniques to manage stress and anxiety, establish coping mechanisms, and boost social communication skills in general.
At Great Speech, we are committed to doing our part to increase awareness around speech therapy and broaden the understanding of how speech and language disorders can affect Americans of all ages. If you or someone you love is struggling with effective communication and is facing poor treatment or discrimination because of their communication differences, help is available. Your path to higher confidence and improved quality of life begins by scheduling your free introductory call today!