A component analysis of awareness training for reducing speech disfluencies

Area of Science:

• Speech-Language Pathology
• Behavioral Science
• Communication Disorders

Background:

• Awareness training is a common treatment for speech disfluencies.
• This treatment package typically includes video and in vivo training components.
• The individual effectiveness of these components is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of individual components of awareness training.
• To understand the contribution of video and in vivo training to reducing speech disfluencies.
• To explore the efficiency and social validity of awareness training subcomponents.

Main Methods:

• An add-in component analysis was used with 8 college students.
• Participants received either video or in vivo training first, followed by the other component if needed.
• Treatment effects were evaluated via posttesting.

Main Results:

• In vivo speech practice alone was sufficient for reducing disfluencies in some participants.
• A sequential package of both video and in vivo training led to more significant behavior change.
• The study highlights the importance of component analysis in treatment development.

Conclusions:

• While in vivo practice can be effective, a combined approach is generally more beneficial for reducing speech disfluencies.
• Understanding the contribution of each component enhances treatment efficiency and social validity.
• This research provides insights into the behavioral principles underlying awareness training for speech disfluencies.