Related Experiment Videos
Linguistic processing and reaction time differences in stutterers and nonstutterers
Journal of Speech and Hearing Research
|June 1, 1983
Summary
Adult male stutterers show a right hemisphere preference for language tasks, unlike non-stutterers. This study explored hemispheric differences in stuttering using a lexical decision task and reaction times.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psycholinguistics
- Speech and Language Pathology
Background:
- Stuttering is a complex speech disorder with potential neurological underpinnings.
- Hemispheric specialization for linguistic processing is well-established, with the left hemisphere typically dominant.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate hemispheric differences in linguistic processing between adult male stutterers and non-stutterers.
- To examine the role of the right hemisphere in stuttering.
Main Methods:
- A lexical decision task involving tachistoscopic presentation of real and non-word stimuli to visual hemifields.
- Measurement of vocal and manual reaction times to assess hemispheric participation and response modes.
Main Results:
- The stuttering group demonstrated a left visual field advantage, suggesting right hemisphere preference for this linguistic task.
- Stutterers exhibited slower vocal and manual reaction times compared to non-stutterers.
Conclusions:
- Findings suggest atypical hemispheric lateralization for language processing in adult male stutterers.
- Results may have implications for understanding the neural basis of stuttering and laryngeal dysfunction hypotheses.