Joe Dilling, a 26-year-old physiotherapy instructor from St Athan in the Vale of Glamorgan, has been living with a stammer since childhood. He shared insights on the stigma surrounding speech difficulties while discussing his thoughts on Jessie, a contestant on the reality TV show, *The Traitors*. Dilling expressed that many individuals with a stammer experience anxiety, especially when introducing themselves.
The Impact of Representation in Media
Dilling noted that people with stammers are often underrepresented in the media. When they do appear, their speech impediment tends to be the focal point of the narrative. He praised Jessie for being portrayed as a normal person, emphasizing that her stammer is not the defining aspect of her character. “It’s refreshing to see no one is making an issue of it,” he remarked.
Understanding Stammering
- Many individuals with a stammer face anxiety in social situations.
- Representation in media is crucial for changing perceptions.
- Awareness about stammering is still insufficient in society.
Dilling also highlighted that awareness is essential to combat lingering misconceptions about stammering. He pointed out that people often underestimate the abilities of those who stammer, leading to awkward interactions. “Raising awareness is the most important thing,” he stated, reflecting on the misunderstandings that still exist regarding speech difficulties.
The Role of Social Cues
Interestingly, Dilling believes that individuals with a stammer often excel at picking up on social cues. His insights suggest that those with speech impediments may possess unique strengths in interpersonal communication.
In conclusion, Joe Dilling advocates for greater representation and understanding of stammering in media and society. By recognizing people with speech difficulties as multifaceted individuals, we can foster a more inclusive environment.
