Video self-modeling intervention in an adult with autism spectrum disorder and stuttering

Abstract

Video self-modeling (VSM) is a behavioral treatment method during which people view video images of themselves free of their problem target behavior. A young male adult case with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and stuttering underwent VSM primarily for stuttering. The first edited video, which consisted solely of his fluent speech segments, evoked negative emotions in him due to the behavioral characteristics of ASD in the video, resulting in discontinuation of VSM. Therefore, a second video, in which he suppressed his behavioral characteristics of ASD, was prepared and introduced to him, which he then viewed without negative reactions. After three months of viewing the second video, the frequency of disfluencies during free conversation declined while his self-rating and satisfaction toward his own speech improved. After the VSM, he reported that he became able to imagine himself speaking fluently for the first time. This case demonstrated that viewing one’s own video images while speaking might be useful for modifying the behaviors of those with ASD who stutter, not only as VSM but also from the perspective of video feedback if their reactions are closely monitored.