Nonverbal competency in aphasic stroke patients' conversation

Abstract

This study investigated whether or not aphasic patients use more nonverbal behaviour than nonaphasic adults. Fifteen aphasic and 15 nonaphasic stroke subjects and 15 nonbrain-damaged subjects were videotaped in conversation. Nonverbal behaviours were identified in each modality then each behaviour was coded according to function and effectiveness. Aphasic subjects produced significantly more nonverbal behaviours. They also produced significantly more ineffective behaviours, though these represented a small proportion of all behaviours. Significant increases were observed in the hand/arm modality and in behaviours with symbolic and regulatory functions. It was concluded that aphasic patients retain a degree of competency in the nonverbal channel and it was suggested that this be measured as part of an assessment of communicative competence.