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Ursidae: The Undergraduate Research Journal at the University of Northern Colorado

Evelyn Ortega

Faculty Sponsor

Kimberly Murza

Abstract

Since the inception of stuttering therapy, the field of speech-language pathology has become increasingly evidence based; its affects have lead clinicians to come up with better techniques that can be successful. However, there are still some gaps in research that need to be analyzed. Recent research has shown both the clinician’s point of view and the experiences and perceptions of clients that should also be considered in treatment planning. Not only is it important to view the stuttering behavior, but also to view the byproducts of the speech disorder. These byproducts of stuttering are not separate from therapy sessions; they are present outside and can influence fluency therapy. Which is why the discussion of success in fluency therapy needs to consider the personal experiences of individuals who stutter. While previous research has reported clients’ and clinicians’ perceptions of success separately, this research considers both views. The results from this qualitative study will aid speech-language pathologists to consider the factors that can create a successful fluency therapy session. Participants for this study were adults who stutter, beginning clinicians, and a clinical educator. The participants who stutter were interviewed to determine if personality traits, hobbies, outside support, life events, or specific therapeutic characteristics influence success. The clinicians were asked what they have observed to be successful in speech therapy and what they believe their clients perceive as vital in fluency sessions. The data collected were transcribed and analyzed to generate themes between three types of people involved with stuttering therapy. Expected results of this research including themes that yielded the most positive perceptions of success will be discussed.

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