Treating Concomitant Language and/or Phonology Impairment in Children Who Stutter

Area of Science:

• Speech-Language Pathology
• Child Development
• Disability Studies

Background:

• Stuttering frequently co-occurs with phonological and/or language impairments in children.
• A significant number of children present with these combined communication disorders.
• Existing treatment approaches may not fully address the complexity of concomitant conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a framework for managing children with both stuttering and phonological/language impairments.
• To apply the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework to this population.
• To outline a multifactorial approach to understanding and treating these co-occurring conditions.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing the ICF framework to guide assessment and intervention.
• Describing a multifactorial approach to understanding stuttering in this context.
• Presenting models for structuring therapy sessions.
• Including a case study with a sample treatment plan.

Main Results:

• The ICF framework offers a structured approach to understanding the impact of co-occurring disorders.
• A multifactorial perspective is essential for effective intervention.
• The case study illustrates the practical application of the ICF model in treatment planning.
• Sample treatment goals, objectives, and activities are provided.

Conclusions:

• The ICF framework provides a comprehensive model for addressing stuttering with concomitant phonological/language impairments.
• Integrated treatment planning is crucial for children with complex communication needs.
• This approach supports a holistic understanding and management of childhood communication disorders.