Dysautomatization refers to a disturbance of ego functions so that they no longer operate automatically, i.e., preconsciously. Stuttering is taken as the prototype of this disturbance. Trauma in the area of separation from the primary identification with mother interferes with normal automatization of speech. There occurs a libidinization of the function of speech, and an increase of conscious attention; the automatism becomes dysautomatized. Subsequent neurotic conflicts become attached to the disturbed function and express themselves through the dysautomatization. Psychoanalytic treatment of the adult stutterer may resolve the neurotic elements; re-education is necessary for the primary fixation.