An Investigation of Work Life and Reasonable Accommodation among Adults Who Stutter

—A Preliminary Study—

Abstract

Previous studies have indicated that stuttering influences the work life of adults who stutter (AWS). However, few studies have examined the situation in Japan. We conducted a questionnaire survey on the work life of 55 AWS. Results showed that for most of the AWS, stuttering affected job choice, and after getting their job, they encountered work difficulties owing to their stuttering, in particular, conversation via telephone. Furthermore, half the AWS felt that others were supportive about their stuttering. This tendency was more remarkable in AWS who "came out" about their stuttering than in those who did not, and in AWS who worked as professionals and/or technicians rather than office workers. It seems that reasonable accommodation, such as "being supportive of stuttering" or "waiting until the AWS starts speaking," is necessary.