Improving our clinical interventions for stuttering: Can evidence from qualitative research contribute?

Abstract

The majority of research in the field of stuttering has employed traditional quantitative methods. Recently, we embarked on a randomized controlled trial comparing three treatments for adolescents who stutter (Prolonged Speech, Self Imposed Time Out and Electromyographic Feedback). However during the course of the trial, major recruitment difficulties were encountered. It became clear that prior to a large scale trial comparing treatment methods, we needed to understand why adolescents who stutter are reticent to have treatment for their stuttering. This line of inquiry clearly necessitated a shift from quantitative to qualitative methods. Focus groups were implemented in this in-progress study to explore the experiences of adolescents who stutter. It is anticipated that the findings will lead to better clinical services and clinical decision making for this age group.

• Stuttering
• adolescence
• quantitative methods
• qualitative methods