Prevalence of Social Anxiety in Indian Adults Who Stutter: A Comprehensive Analysis

Abstract

Background: Stuttering is a speech disorder with a complex, multifactorial origin that frequently intersects with social anxiety, significantly affecting the quality of life of an individual. Unfortunately, little research has explored the prevalence of social anxiety in Indian Adults Who Stutter. Aim: To assess the prevalence rate and levels of social anxiety among Indian adults who stutter. Method: A study was conducted on 65 individuals with stuttering and 65 controls without stuttering. To measure social anxiety, the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS) was used. Statistical analysis included z-tests and percentage analysis to compare social anxiety between the groups. Results: The results indicated that Adults with stuttering exhibited significantly higher levels of social anxiety compared to controls. Notably, female participants with stuttering demonstrated a 100% prevalence rate of social anxiety. Conclusion: This study highlights the elevated risk of social anxiety among Indian Adults Who Stutter, particularly among female populations. The results highlighted the significance of customised therapies aimed at addressing social anxiety in adult Indians who stutter to improve their overall quality of life.