Empathy: perhaps the most important E in EBP

Area of Science:

• Speech-Language Pathology
• Clinical Psychology
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Evidence-based practice is increasingly emphasized in stuttering treatment.
• Current research often prioritizes observable stuttering behaviors over internal experiences.
• The subjective experience of stuttering is crucial for understanding and treating the disorder.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify loss of control as a central factor in the experience of stuttering.
• To explore reasons why the concept of loss of control has been neglected in stuttering research and treatment.
• To propose a client-centered perspective for understanding and addressing stuttering.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of historical and contemporary stuttering research.
• Analysis of treatment approaches and their focus.
• Conceptual exploration of the client's subjective experience of stuttering.

Main Results:

• The concept of 'loss of control' is identified as a critical, yet under-researched, aspect of stuttering.
• Traditional stuttering treatments often focus on surface-level disfluencies, neglecting the internal struggle.
• Historical and practical factors have contributed to the marginalization of the client's perspective in research.

Conclusions:

• Shifting focus to the client's perceived loss of control is essential for effective stuttering intervention.
• Future research and treatment should integrate the subjective experience of stuttering.
• Adopting a client-centered approach can lead to more impactful and holistic stuttering therapy.