Effects of Perceived Communication Levels in Sports on Athletic Inclusion for People Who Stutter

Authors: Isabella Morelli, Michelle Belakh

Field of Study: Biochemistry

Program Affiliation: Source Project Research Program

Faculty Mentors: Rodney Gabel

Easel: 78

Timeslot: Morning

Abstract: Stuttering can be defined by the disruption of speech, characterized by repetition of syllables, words, or sounds. It has been well established in research that there are negative stereotypes associated with stuttering. The purpose of this study was to determine if the perceived level of communication involved with a sport would impact whether or not athletes would advise a person who stutters (PWS) to join a sports team. It is unclear if non-stuttering athletes hold negative stereotypes regarding a person who stutters in athletics, which is what this study aims to uncover. Data has been collected through a voluntary survey designed to measure participants’ perceptions of team communication and levels of inclusion-willingness of PWS in athletic settings. Statistical analysis will be conducted using correlation analysis to evaluate the relationship between perceived communication levels of said sports and the degree of athletic inclusion of PWS.