Hand gestures – Do they add or detract from your speech?

[Anonymous]

I have heard a lot of people (PWS and non-PWS alike) voice their concerns that using hand gestures while speaking usually detracts from their speech as it distracts the listener.

What do you guys think? Do you think that this is the case? And if so, do you not think that it is more important to distract YOURSELF (THE PWS) from stuttering and focusing on words, than wondering if the listener is distracted. I think that as long as the gestures are not so much that the listener is incapable of understanding what you are saying, then it does more good than harm.

Give me your thoughts?

[Javier]

I like to use hand gestures. As long as you don’t look like one of those inflatable wacky waiving tube guys that you normally see at the car dealer lots, it’s preferable speak without moving a single finger, like a statue. When you use hand gestures, you move yourself a little bit, you sound much more natural, and it clearly distracts youb from the stutter fears.

[Anonymous]

Loooool Javier. Sometimes I end up looking like those inflatable wacky tube guys… maybe THAT is why I was told I am thrilling! What do the rest of you guys think?

[Author]

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