Blackwell Reference Online

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Speech fluency refers to clear oral communication devoid of speech errors. A speaker who is able to deliver a message that features a continuous flow of information at an appropriate rate, unmarred by any of the multiple speech errors, is said to possess speech fluency, an area of communication mastery. Speech fluency is the product of mental skills, such as recall of procedural and declarative knowledge, and physical motor skills involving correct functioning and use of the vocal cords, tongue, mouth, and lips to produce speech (→  Message Production ). Situational factors that facilitate speech fluency include an attentive audience, an absence of distraction, the speaker being able to prepare and practice the message ahead of time, and a monologue rather than a dialogue communication format where there are fewer opportunities for interruptions and no requirement to manage turn-taking. In terms of individual difference factors , some speakers are naturally more fluent than others, whereas at the opposite end of the spectrum there are those who are burdened by anxiety with regard to communication. Nearly all speakers have the ability through training and practice to become communication masters whose speech is fluent. There are treatments available to improve speakers' speech fluency. Treatments include physical therapy, coaching, and confidence training. The goal of all treatments ... log in or subscribe to read full text