Aura Yli-Savola, Kurt Eggers, P. Rautakoski, D. Ollas-Skogster, S. Nolvi, L. Karlsson, H. Karlsson and Elina Mainela-Arnold

This study explored how linguistic skills and temperament predict speech fluency at ages 2.5 and 5. Weak early language skills predicted stuttering at age 5, while low effortful control at age 2 correlated with fluency issues at both ages. Early language development and family history of stuttering were key risk factors, with temperament playing a secondary role. At age 5, stuttering was primarily explained by linguistic skills and family history.

The study supports the DD-S model, suggesting emotional and linguistic vulnerabilities contribute to stuttering. Findings emphasize individualized assessment and the importance of addressing linguistic skills in early intervention for stuttering.