Casey Dewanckele, Tara Mouton, Evelien D'haeseleer, Anke Adriaansen, Imke Kissel, Clara Leyns, Tine Papeleu, Charis Van der Straeten, Peter Tomassen, Frederick Dochy, Kristien Rycek, Kaat Pieters, Kristiane Van Lierde, Iris Meerschman
{"title":"Short- and Longer-Term Effects of Three Intensive Straw Phonation Interventions on the Voice of Female Speech-Language Pathology Students With Mild Dysphonia: A Randomized Controlled Trial","authors":"Casey Dewanckele, Tara Mouton, Evelien D'haeseleer, Anke Adriaansen, Imke Kissel, Clara Leyns, Tine Papeleu, Charis Van der Straeten, Peter Tomassen, Frederick Dochy, Kristien Rycek, Kaat Pieters, Kristiane Van Lierde, Iris Meerschman","doi":"10.1111/1460-6984.70070","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/1460-6984.70070","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Purpose</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>The purpose of this study was to examine the short- and longer-term effects (3-month follow-up) of a 1-month intensive straw phonation (SP) therapy on the voice quality and voice-related quality of life of female speech-language pathology (SLP) students with mild dysphonia.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Method</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Thirty-two female SLP students (mean age: 18.5 years, range: 17.8–19.8 years) with mild dysphonia were included in this study. A randomized controlled trial was used with three experimental groups and a control group. The experimental groups received a short-term intensive voice therapy of one month with SP in air (<i>n</i> = 8), SP in 2 cm water (<i>n</i> = 8) or SP in 5 cm water (<i>n</i> = 8). The control group (<i>n</i> = 8) received a comparable voice therapy by using [u] phonation with similar soft onset and slightly pursed lips as in SP but without a straw. Three maintenance sessions were provided via telepractice in the next month. A multidimensional voice assessment was performed immediately before therapy (pre), immediately after therapy (post 1) and at 1 month (after the maintenance therapy = post 2) and 3 months follow-up (post 3) by an assessor blinded to the group assignment and study phase.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>No significant time-by-group interactions were found for any of the outcome measures, indicating no significant differences in evolution over time among the four groups. Primary outcomes: Within-group analyses showed a significant increase (improvement) in Dysphonia Severity Index (DSI) between post 1 and post 2 in the SP in 2 cm water group. Trends of improvement were visible in DSI between pre and post 1 in the SP in air group, and between pre/post 1 and post 2 in the SP in 5 cm water group. A clinically relevant decrease (improvement) in Acoustic Voice Quality Index (AVQI) was found between pre and post 1 in the SP in 2 cm water group. Secondary outcomes: Within-group analyses further showed a significant increase in the SP in 2 cm water group in the highest intensity between pre and post 1/post 2, a significant decrease in the lowest frequency between pre and post 3, and a significant decrease in Vocal Fatigue Index between pre and post 1/post 2. The SP in the air group showed an increase in the highest frequency between pre and post 2. The SP in 5 cm water group showed improvements in the auditory-perceptual parameters, roughness, and strain between pre and post 1.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusions</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Positive effects were found for the three SP interventions. The most promising results were found for SP in 2 cm wate","PeriodicalId":49182,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Language & Communication Disorders","volume":"60 4","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2025-07-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144573499","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Strengths and Challenges of the Speech and Language Therapy (SLT) Degree Apprenticeship Route: Initial Stakeholder Perspectives","authors":"Hazel Richards, Victoria Lundie","doi":"10.1111/1460-6984.70071","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/1460-6984.70071","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This article shares details of a pilot research project that explored stakeholder perceptions and experiences of the academic and work-based elements involved in one university's innovative speech and language therapy (SLT) degree apprenticeship.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Aims</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>To share findings about SLT apprentice learner and mentor expectations and experiences since this knowledge, including of barriers and facilitators, will enable the university concerned, and others already providing or developing their SLT degree apprenticeship, to enhance their offer and so apprentice learning experience and outcomes.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods and Procedures</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Following ethical approval, a mixed-methods research design was applied. In phase one, 18 apprentice and mentor participants involved in the programme completed online questionnaires. Themes identified from inductive thematic analysis of the questionnaire data were probed further in nine online semi-structured interviews, with transcripts also being analysed using inductive thematic analysis.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Outcomes and Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Findings offer new knowledge about the apprenticeship route into the profession and provide valuable insight for HEIs and employers considering or developing an SLT or wider allied health profession (AHP) apprenticeship offer. This includes detail about the strengths and challenges related to four key themes: internal factors; time and support; structure and organisation; and apprenticeship processes.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusions and Implications</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>The apprenticeship provides an economically sustainable and practical progression opportunity for learners, including SLTAs, and may provide SLT training that is better embedded in clinical practice than traditional routes. Collaboration between the key stakeholders (apprentice learner, workplace mentor, and HEI) is central to this, though challenges in terms of time and resources exist. Developing and sustaining SLT apprenticeships therefore has implications for future workforce development and the profession.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <div><i>What is already known on this subject</i>\u0000 \u0000 <ul>\u0000 \u0000 <li>Degree apprenticeships","PeriodicalId":49182,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Language & Communication Disorders","volume":"60 4","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2025-07-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/1460-6984.70071","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144573498","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Marina Charalambous, Phivos Phylactou, Marios Serafim, Pinelopi Vlotinou, Anastasios M Georgiou, Eliada Pampoulou, Maria Papaioannou, Fotini Georgiou, Lakis Palazis
{"title":"Cypriot Healthcare Professionals’ Knowledge and Skills When Interacting With Patients With Aphasia in Clinical Settings","authors":"Marina Charalambous, Phivos Phylactou, Marios Serafim, Pinelopi Vlotinou, Anastasios M Georgiou, Eliada Pampoulou, Maria Papaioannou, Fotini Georgiou, Lakis Palazis","doi":"10.1111/1460-6984.70089","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/1460-6984.70089","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Aphasia, a communication disorder mainly resulting from stroke, poses challenges to the meaningful interactions between healthcare professionals and people with aphasia (PWA). Little is known about the knowledge and skills of Cypriot healthcare professionals when interacting with PWA in clinical settings. This study explores the knowledge and skills of Cypriot healthcare professionals in communicating with PWA.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Method</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>A total of 245 Greek-speaking Cypriot healthcare professionals completed the Greek version of the Health Professionals and Aphasia Questionnaire (HPAQ). Participants’ knowledge and skills were assessed in five categories: Knowledge, Skills, Behaviour and Emotions, Practice, and Environment. Demographic data were analysed through linear regression and ANOVA to identify predictors of HPAQ scores.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Participants’ mean HPAQ score was 94.57 (SD = 28.1). Higher educational levels (master's degree) and the Speech and Language Therapy profession significantly predicted higher HPAQ scores. Moderate frequency of interaction with PWA (1–20 times/week) was also associated with improved knowledge of aphasia and better communication skills when interacting with PWA.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Speech and Language Therapists exhibited higher competency in interacting with PWA compared to other healthcare professionals, highlighting their specialised training. The findings emphasise the importance of education, experience, and interaction frequency in enhancing healthcare professionals' ability to communicate effectively with PWA in clinical settings. To address identified gaps, targeted interventions, such as Communication Partner Training, are recommended to improve communication strategies and patient outcomes in Cypriot healthcare settings.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <div><i>What is already known on this subject</i>\u0000 \u0000 <ul>\u0000 \u0000 <li>Aphasia, which affects 40% of stroke survivors in the acute phase, profoundly impacts communication abilities, leading to longer hospital stays, increased healthcare needs, and higher rates of disability. Many healthcare professionals lack the training, strategies, and resources required to effectively communicate with people with aphasia (PWA), limiting PWA's participation in d","PeriodicalId":49182,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Language & Communication Disorders","volume":"60 4","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2025-07-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/1460-6984.70089","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144551113","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Gao Xiao, Wang Yongli, Liang Zhuoer, Dai Yuan, Zuo Jing, Wan Qin
{"title":"Investigation of Learning and Employment Status in the Undergraduate Education of Speech Rehabilitation in Mainland China","authors":"Gao Xiao, Wang Yongli, Liang Zhuoer, Dai Yuan, Zuo Jing, Wan Qin","doi":"10.1111/1460-6984.70087","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/1460-6984.70087","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Speech-language pathology (SLP) in China, referred to as ‘speech rehabilitation’, addresses developmental and acquired communication disorders, including language delays, aphasia, and dysphagia. Despite the population exceeding 85 million individuals with communication disabilities, China faces a critical shortage of certified professionals, with fewer than 2000 practitioners nationwide.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Objective</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>To investigate the learning and employment status of undergraduate speech rehabilitation programs in mainland China, with the aim of identifying systemic gaps and proposing actionable reforms.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>An online questionnaire was administered to 67 undergraduate students majoring in hearing and speech rehabilitation, with a focus on theoretical learning, practice, and employment status. Additionally, six department chairmen were surveyed to analyse the training programs, teaching staff, curriculum, and practical experiences.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Regarding employment, 54.3% (25/46) of the graduates had monthly incomes between 5000 and 10 000 RMB. The top three fields of employment are hearing, speech, and language rehabilitation. Clinical internships averaged 10.17 months in various settings, including hospitals and schools. In terms of learning, the average number of full-time teaching staff was 8.17, with 28.33% being associate professors and 19.17% professors. There is no uniform standard for compulsory courses, but institutions offer a range of electives. Satisfaction with learning and practice was rated at 3.88 on a 5-point Likert scale (somewhat satisfied), while employment satisfaction was lower at 3.53 (between neutral and somewhat satisfied).</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Employment in speech rehabilitation is promising but requires an independent certification system. Internship arrangements are reasonable, with high student satisfaction. Educational institutions focus on foundational knowledge and skills but need to improve research skills and faculty quality.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Suggestions</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>(1) The link between theoretical learning and clinical practice should be strengthened by incorporating more case studies and enhancing the quality and diversity of clinical practice. (2) Establish an independent certification system for speech rehabilitation to develop discipline and motivate career advance","PeriodicalId":49182,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Language & Communication Disorders","volume":"60 4","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2025-07-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144537147","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Speech and Language Therapy Weekend Service in Inpatient Rehabilitation: A Qualitative Study Exploring Perspectives of People With Stroke","authors":"Lidia Davies, Lucette Lanyon, Robyn O'Halloran","doi":"10.1111/1460-6984.70077","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/1460-6984.70077","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>An allied health weekend service in subacute inpatient stroke rehabilitation can improve patient and organisational outcomes. However, there is insufficient evidence to justify the role of a speech and language therapy (SLT) weekend service in this setting. Exploring the perspectives of individuals who have received SLT services in inpatient stroke rehabilitation will assist with understanding the current role of SLT and the potential for SLT weekend services in inpatient stroke rehabilitation.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Aims</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This study aimed to: (1) determine the aspects of an SLT inpatient rehabilitation service that are perceived to be important to people with stroke who have an acquired communication and/or swallowing impairment, and (2) establish which of these valued aspects are also relevant to the provision of an SLT weekend service.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods and Procedures</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>A generic qualitative approach was employed. Adults admitted to inpatient rehabilitation for a minimum 2-week stay, including two weekends, and who engaged in communication and/or swallowing-related rehabilitation were invited to participate in semi-structured, in-depth interviews. Interview data were recorded, transcribed, and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Outcomes and Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Six people with stroke were interviewed. Two main themes informed participants’ perspectives of important aspects of inpatient rehabilitation: (1) ‘recovering from my stroke’ which described factors relating to the patients’ participation in their rehabilitation program and their therapy progress, and (2) ‘supporting my wellbeing’ which reflected the value of social connections, feeling supported by staff, dedicated rest periods, and engagement in meaningful activities outside of scheduled therapy sessions. Although some participants supported the idea of an SLT weekend service to receive additional therapy, weekends were also perceived as important to support wellbeing by participating in activities that were not directly part of their rehabilitation program.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusions and Implications</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Weekends were perceived to provide both the opportunity for additional therapy and to facilitate valued experiences that went beyond participation in the rehabilitation program. These experiences included rest, maintaining or developing social connections","PeriodicalId":49182,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Language & Communication Disorders","volume":"60 4","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2025-07-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/1460-6984.70077","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144537148","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"What's Love Got to Do With It? Reflections on the Role of Stuttering in Enabling and Enhancing Relationships","authors":"Amy Connery, Christopher D. Constantino","doi":"10.1111/1460-6984.70082","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/1460-6984.70082","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Despite the literature highlighting the mostly negative impact of stuttering on an individual's life, there is emerging evidence alluding to an alternative and more advantageous experience for some adults who stutter. Features of this alternative experience include enhanced interpersonal relationships and increased sensitivity to others. Investigation of such favourable by-products of stuttering is lacking in the literature, and in order to comprehensively understand the lived experience of stuttering for all individuals, such exploration is required.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Aims</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This article aims to theoretically explore stuttering's capacity to enhance a person's cultivation of loving relationships, and relationships more generally, with others.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods and Procedures</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This aim is achieved through a broad discussion on the meaning of <i>love</i>, and, more specifically, through the examination of the concept of <i>vulnerability</i> as a fundamental component that underpins a robust loving relationship. The role of stuttering as an act of vulnerability that has the capacity to enhance the relationships experienced by people who stutter is proposed.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Main Contribution</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This paper serves as a novel conversation on the potential for stuttering to enhance a person's cultivation of robust relationships. It continues the discourse that challenges traditional deficit-based perspectives of stuttering and presents an alternative narrative of stuttering that can shape our research and clinical practices.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusions and Implications</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>The advantageous by-products of stuttering, such as the role that stuttering plays in enabling and enhancing relationships, require further exploration. A range of clinical recommendations is outlined in order to support clients’ enactment of vulnerability and enhancement of their relationship experiences.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <div><i>What is already known on the subject</i>\u0000 \u0000 <ul>\u0000 \u0000 <li>The research-based literature highlights the mostly negative impact that stuttering has on an individual's life. More recent evidence, however, indicates an alternative experie","PeriodicalId":49182,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Language & Communication Disorders","volume":"60 4","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2025-07-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/1460-6984.70082","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144551112","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Michaela Trapl-Grundschober, Lea Schneider, Steffen Schulz, Simon Sollereder, Yvonne Teuschl, Walter Struhal, Jürgen Osterbrink
{"title":"Solid Medication Intake in Hospitalised Patients With Dysphagia: A Challenge for Speech and Language Pathologists?","authors":"Michaela Trapl-Grundschober, Lea Schneider, Steffen Schulz, Simon Sollereder, Yvonne Teuschl, Walter Struhal, Jürgen Osterbrink","doi":"10.1111/1460-6984.70073","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/1460-6984.70073","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Purpose</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Speech and language pathologists (SLP) are frequently consulted for guidance on the management of oral solid medications. However, the extent to which SLPs consider solid medication intake during swallowing examination remains unclear. The present study endeavoured to find out whether and how SLPs assess patients’ ability to swallow solid dosage forms (SDF) in clinical settings, with a specific focus on stroke units.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>An online cross-sectional survey was conducted among SLPs in German-speaking countries. The questionnaire was targeted at SLPs working in hospitals and distributed through both direct outreach and passive dissemination on social networks.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Of 200 returned questionnaires, 147 were eligible for inclusion. Of these, 108 (73.5%) evaluated the swallowing ability of solid oral medications and were further analysed. During clinical swallowing examination, the patient's own medication is most frequently used (63.9%). 92.6% of the 108 SLPs stated that they regularly offer guidance on altering SDFs. SLPs' decision to recommend modified SDFs or pause them is influenced by oral cavity retention of SDFs, pharyngeal phase disorders and SDF intake-related coughing. Additionally, SLPs employ textures that were determined to be safe for accompanying boluses, with fruit puree and water being the most preferred types. Responses of SLPs working on stroke units did not differ significantly from those working on other wards.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>SLPs commonly evaluate the swallowing ability of SDFs. Typically, they utilise the patient's own medications for testing purposes and previously trialled consistencies as accompanying boluses. Specific evaluation and educational programs are needed to enhance the management quality of oral SDFs.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <p><b>Trial Registration</b>: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: Registration ID: NCT05173051/Protocol ID: 11TS003721</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <div><i>What is already known on the subject</i>\u0000 \u0000 <ul>\u0000 \u0000 <li>Speech Language Pathologists are crucial in assessing and managing dysphagia. Recent studies and guidelines suggest that it is important for SLPs to evaluate the ability to s","PeriodicalId":49182,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Language & Communication Disorders","volume":"60 4","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2025-07-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/1460-6984.70073","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144537212","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Culturally Responsive Practices Among Speech–Language Pathologists in Saudi Arabia: Knowledge, Skills, Training Experiences and Attitudes","authors":"Mohammed Almutairi","doi":"10.1111/1460-6984.70078","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/1460-6984.70078","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Saudi Arabia (SA) is a culturally and linguistically diverse nation, with 41.6% of its population comprising non-Saudis from varied backgrounds. This diversity emphasizes the importance of culturally responsive practices (CRPs) in addressing the distinct needs of multicultural individuals. Within SA, speech–language pathologists (SLPs) often encounter clients from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds, requiring tailored approaches to assessment and intervention. Despite the importance of CRPs in ensuring equitable and effective SLP services, no known studies have explored CRPs among SLPs in SA.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Aims</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This study aimed to explore the training, attitudes, skills, knowledge and facilitators related to CRPs among SLPs in SA.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods and Procedures</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>SLPs in SA were invited to participate in this mixed-methods study through an electronic survey. The survey consisted of 27 questions designed to gather information on demographics, training, attitudes, skills, knowledge and facilitators related to CRPs. Responses were collected over 6 weeks. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively, while qualitative data were examined using inductive content analysis to identify themes and subthemes.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Outcomes and Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Findings showed that SLPs in SA had positive attitudes towards CRPs and reported confidence in their CRP-related skills. However, responses revealed three areas of CRP-related knowledge that need further development: health literacy, understanding specific disorders and diseases with higher prevalence in different ethnic groups that contribute to speech and language issues, and the impact of acculturation on communication. Most participants reported receiving training related to CRP concepts. Additionally, four themes were identified as facilitators to enhance the implementation of CRPs.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusions and Implications</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Overall, SLPs in SA reported positive attitudes towards CRPs and self-reported confidence in applying CRP-related skills, suggesting potential competency in serving diverse clients and students. However, specific areas of CRP knowledge require further development, highlighting the need for targeted training in the future. Researchers are encouraged to consider the identified facilitators and explore how implementing these practices may impact service delivery and client experiences.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 ","PeriodicalId":49182,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Language & Communication Disorders","volume":"60 4","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2025-07-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144537178","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Eline Alons, Nicole ter Wal, Margreet R. Luinge, Caroline B. Terwee, Ellen Gerrits, Lizet van Ewijk
{"title":"Communicative Participation in Adolescents and Young Adults: A Concept Elicitation Study","authors":"Eline Alons, Nicole ter Wal, Margreet R. Luinge, Caroline B. Terwee, Ellen Gerrits, Lizet van Ewijk","doi":"10.1111/1460-6984.70069","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/1460-6984.70069","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Communicative participation is the primary outcome of speech and language therapy for people with communication disorders. However, there are no instruments that measure communicative participation from the perspective of adolescents and young adults. Moreover, little research has been conducted in which adolescents and young adults with various communication problems were asked about relevant participation situations in which they need to communicate. Before a new measurement instrument can be developed, it is necessary to explore adolescents’ and young adults’ views on their communicative participation.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Aims</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>In this study we identified situations in which adolescents and young adults experience barriers participating because of communication problems, as well as situations in which they have no difficulties. In addition, we identified aspects of these situations that influence communicative participation in order to gain a deeper understanding of concepts related to communicative participation.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods and Procedures</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This concept elicitation study concerned in-depth interviews on self-experienced communicative participation, in which diaries were used as a sensitizing exercise. Participants were asked to keep a diary for 1–2 weeks in which they described their communicative participation during the day. They were asked to describe situations in which they were not able to participate because of their communication disorder, and to describe situations in which they were able to participate. Within 1 week after completing the diary, participants were invited for an in-depth interview, in which the content of the diary was discussed.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Outcomes and Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Twelve participants were included in this study (7 females, 5 males; 13–27 years) with a variety of communication disorders, including language disorders, speech disorders, hearing loss, or a combination of them. They described a total of 234 situations related to different domains (e.g., communicative participation in school or with friends). Out of these situations, 37 concepts that influence communicative participation were found that were related to the six categories: person (e.g., strangers), topic (e.g., figurative language), pace (e.g., time pressure), location (e.g., school), moment (e.g., energy) and mode (e.g., group conversations).</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Concl","PeriodicalId":49182,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Language & Communication Disorders","volume":"60 4","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2025-06-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/1460-6984.70069","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144515003","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Validity and Reliability of the Turkish Version of the Dynamic Evaluation of Motor Speech Skill (DEMSS-TR) Test for Children With Speech Sound Disorders","authors":"Aşena Karamete, Bülent Toğram","doi":"10.1111/1460-6984.70067","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/1460-6984.70067","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) is a complex motor speech disorder that requires careful differential diagnosis, particularly in languages where validated diagnostic tools are lacking. The Dynamic Evaluation of Motor Speech Skill (DEMSS) is a widely used tool for identifying CAS, but a Turkish version had not yet been developed.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Aims</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This study aimed to adapt DEMSS into Turkish (DEMSS-TR) and evaluate its psychometric properties for use with Turkish-speaking children with speech sound disorders (SSD).</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Eighty-two monolingual Turkish-speaking children aged 3;0 to 6;11 with SSDs participated. Participants were assessed for speech-motor skills, oral-motor function, articulation, and language development. Following translation and pilot testing, DEMSS-TR was evaluated for internal consistency, test–retest reliability and intra- and inter-rater reliability. Validity was assessed through expert-based content validation, cluster analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>DEMSS-TR demonstrated strong reliability and validity. Cronbach's alpha exceeded 0.90 for all subtests and the total score. Test–retest coefficients ranged from 0.823 to 0.991, with inter- and intra-rater reliability consistently above 0.90. Content validity was supported by expert ratings, with all items exceeding a content validity ratio of 0.80. Cluster analysis revealed three distinct participant groupings consistent with CAS, mild CAS and non-CAS diagnoses. ROC analysis showed high sensitivity and specificity across subtests and total score, confirming the tool's diagnostic accuracy.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusions</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>DEMSS-TR is a reliable and valid assessment for identifying CAS in Turkish-speaking children with SSDs. Its dynamic, structured format allows clinicians to observe motor speech behaviours under cued and spontaneous conditions, supporting accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. This adaptation addresses a significant gap in Turkish clinical practice and contributes to the international literature on cross-linguistic assessment of motor speech disorders.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <div><i>What is already known on the subject</i>\u0000 \u0000 <ul>\u0000 \u0000 <li>It is performed with the Dynamic Evaluation of Motor Speec","PeriodicalId":49182,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Language & Communication Disorders","volume":"60 4","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2025-06-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144515004","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}