The perceptions and practices of speech-language pathologists in Turkiye regarding therapy approaches for children...

The Lidcombe Program is an evidence-based treatment for early stuttering. Although negative attitudes towards direct stuttering therapies have previously been reported among Turkish speech-language pathologists, these data are outdated, and this study updates the field by examining current perceptions and experiences with the Lidcombe Program. This study explored Turkish clinicians' perceptions, practices, and challenges in delivering pre-school stuttering therapy, with a focus on the Lidcombe Program.

An explanatory sequential mixed-method design was employed. In Phase 1, 121 Turkish speech-language pathologists completed a cross-sectional survey on early stuttering therapy. In Phase 2, eight speech-language pathologists participated in semi-structured interviews analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Survey findings indicated that the Lidcombe Program was the most frequently used therapy for preschoolers who stutter, particularly among more experienced clinicianss, despite few having completed formal Lidcombe Program training (e.g. a Lidcombe Program Trainers Consortium workshop). Most respondents expressed interest in Lidcombe Program training and emphasised the need for Turkish-language resources. Interviews highlighted two main challenges: Limited training opportunities and implementation difficulties, including variable parental engagement and language-related barriers.

Barriers such as scarce Turkish-language training and resources may impact speech-language pathologists' confidence in delivering the Lidcombe Program. Expanding culturally and linguistically appropriate training, including accessible online modules, may improve uptake and implementation.