Selfmodelling as a relapse intervention following speechrestructuring treatment for stuttering

Abstract

Background Speech restructuring is an efficacious method for the alleviation of stuttered speech. However, posttreatment relapse is common. Aims To investigate whether the use of video selfmodelling using restructured stutterfree speech reduces stuttering in adults who had learnt a speechrestructuring technique and subsequently relapsed. Methods & Procedures Participants were twelve adults who had previously had speechrestructuring treatment for stuttering and relapsed. They were video recorded for 1 hour within the clinic, practising their speechrestructuring technique. The videos were then edited to remove all observable stuttering. Participants then viewed the resulting video of themselves using restructured stutterfree speech each day for 1 month and were instructed to speak as they did on the video. Beyondclinic speech samples and selfreport severity data were collected before and after the intervention. Outcomes & Results Very large effect sizes were found. The mean per cent syllables stuttered was 7.7 preintervention and 2.3 postintervention. For all but one participant there was a reduction in stuttering from preintervention to postintervention. These results were verified with selfreport data. Speech naturalness was not compromised by the video selfmodelling procedure. Conclusion & Implications Video selfmodelling as a relapse management tool does not involve excessive time expenditure by the clinician or the client. The study indicates video selfmodelling is potentially useful for managing relapse after speechrestructuring treatment for stuttering, and in some cases may be a standalone procedure to manage relapse. Phase II and III trials are warranted to determine the size and duration of the effect. It is suggested video selfmodelling could also be included in a relapse management plan. © 2009 Informa UK Ltd All rights reserved: reproduction in whole or part not permitted.