Does anxiety cause stammering?

No.

Anxiety does not cause a child to stammer. Research suggests that some children report more symptoms of anxiety compared to children who do not stammer. But that does not mean that anxiety causes stammering.

Environmental factors, such as bullying and negative reactions from peers, can lead to more worry and apprehension about speaking, would could affect a child's self-esteem and make them more anxious about speaking situations. 

Our understanding of the relationship between anxiety and stammering is remains an area of research. It is hoped that more research into factors associated with stammering will help us better understand what may influence the development of anxiety in young people who stammer. But it is generally accepted that anxiety does not cause stammering. 

Stammering affects much more than the physical act of speaking. Therefore, it can help for a person to receive support understanding and resolving the links between their thoughts, emotions and behaviours around their stammer. 

Related articles:

• What causes stammering?
• How can stammering impact children and young people?