Coping with the adversity of chronic disorder: the development of resilience

Chronic diseases and disorders include a diverse range of conditions that often impose a considerable burden on mental health and quality of life. Stuttering (or stammering) is a chronic communication disorder with suspected neural causes. It involves involuntary disruption to the fluency of speech beginning in childhood and for many it persists into adulthood. Recent research suggests that chronic stuttering can impose a significant burden with subsequent adverse conditions, such as avoidant behavior and social disengagement. This chapter will explore the behavioral and mental impact of stuttering and will discuss recent research the authors have conducted on the development of resilience in the face of adversity associated with this chronic disorder.The chapter will also explore resilience factors such as helpful social support and self-efficacy that will protect people from the adversity of a chronic condition like stuttering.The importance of these factors is discussed in the light of coping with and adjusting to the potential negative impacts of stuttering on the behavior and mental health of people who stutter.