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Behavioral self-control of stuttering using time-out from speaking
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
|January 1, 1981
Summary
This study shows that stuttering can be reduced using a self-initiated time-out procedure. This operant technique, involving response-contingent consequences, proved effective in improving speech fluency.
Area of Science:
- Speech-Language Pathology
- Behavioral Psychology
Background:
- Stuttering (stammering) can be managed with response-contingent consequences.
- Clinical procedures for stuttering based on operant principles are underdeveloped.
Observation:
- A single subject participated in two experiments using self-initiated response-contingent time-out from speaking.
- Multiple baseline designs monitored speech in laboratory and community settings.
Findings:
- The time-out procedure reliably reduced disfluency across all settings.
- Combining time-out with response-cost increased procedural reliability and effectiveness.
- Fluency improvements were maintained at 6- and 12-month follow-ups.
Implications:
- Self-initiated response-contingent time-out is a viable clinical procedure for stuttering.
- Operant conditioning principles can be effectively applied to stuttering modification.
- Long-term fluency gains are achievable with this intervention.