Main Paper Stuttering Modification Using Hypnosis: an Experimental Single-case Study

This experimental single-case study examines hypnosis as an anxiety management and ego-strengthening technique for stuttering modification. The fluency of a 29-year-old male with a severe overt stutter was measured in controlled conditions over a baseline period, 12 hypnosis sessions and five follow-up sessions, using standardized reading material. In hypnosis the subject was taught anxiety management and self-hypnosis techniques alongside covert rehearsal of coping with stressful situations. Fluency improved immediately during hypnosis and a steady increase in fluency was seen over sessions on the standardized materials when tested both before and after hypnosis. On the basis of post-hypnotic suggestion and directed practice, these marked improvements in speech production seen in the laboratory were generalized to everyday situations. The subject also reported a considerable improvement in his general physical and mental well-being. The significance of these results for the use of hypnosis as an adjunct to speech therapy are discussed.