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FreDESS: a clinical tool for perceptual evaluation of stuttering
Elisabeth Lindström1,2, Cecilia Lundström3, Anders Sand1
1Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Speech and Language Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
Logopedics, Phoniatrics, Vocology
|April 22, 2024
Summary
This study introduces FreDESS, a new tool for assessing stuttering. FreDESS is a reliable and valid method for evaluating stuttered speech, offering a time-efficient alternative for clinicians and researchers.
Area of Science:
- Speech-Language Pathology
- Communication Sciences and Disorders
Background:
- Stuttering is a complex communication disorder.
- Accurate assessment of stuttering is crucial for effective intervention.
- Existing assessment tools may be time-consuming or lack ecological validity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce FreDESS (frequency of stuttering events, duration of events, effort, secondary behaviours, and severity), an easily administered and ecologically valid tool for perceptual evaluation of stuttered speech.
- To assess the reliability and validity of the FreDESS scale.
Main Methods:
- Video recordings of 38 individuals who stutter (aged 13-25) were evaluated by three speech-language pathologists.
- Inter- and intrajudge reliability were assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and agreement measures.
- Internal consistency was determined using Cronbach's alpha (α).
- Concurrent validity was examined by comparing FreDESS ratings with the Stuttering Severity Instrument (SSI-3).
Main Results:
- Good interjudge reliability was observed, particularly for frequency, duration, and severity parameters (over 90% agreement).
- Strong intrajudge reliability was found for all FreDESS parameters (ICC = 0.86-0.94).
- High internal consistency (α = 0.98) and concurrent validity (r = 0.90-0.96) were demonstrated.
Conclusions:
- The FreDESS scale is a valuable and reliable tool for assessing stuttered speech in clinical and research settings.
- FreDESS offers a valid and more time-efficient alternative to existing assessment instruments like the SSI.
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