Book Description

The goal of this book is to call attention to a systematic scientific approach to studying and treating stuttering via the strategies of operant conditioning, learning theory, and single-subject research design. Another purpose is to present the data collected and/or published over the past 30 years in one place for evaluation and comparison. This new edition starts with a brief introductory chapter including the basic principles of operant analysis. Chapter 2 covers the mechanics of charting, counting, and computing stuttering and speaking rates. Chapter 3 describes evaluation with both new data and forms. Chapter 4 is on programming, and Chapter 5 highlights the two present major establishment programs, Delayed Auditory Feedback (DAF)-Prolongation and Gradual Increase in Length and Complexity of Utterance (GILCU). Chapter 6 discusses transfer and maintenance programs and follow-up, while Chapter 7 presents long-term individual client performances in several programs. Chapter 8 covers the preschool stuttering child, and Chapter 9 describes efforts at and results of dissemination through training. Chapter 10 is a summary of efficacy data published over recent years, and Chapter 11 provides conclusions, discussion of problems, and suggested directions for future clinical research. Because it uniquely combines behavior modification, remediation of a well-known but perplexing disorder, and the most up-to-date clinical research, this outstanding new edition will serve as a great resource to anyone involved in the treatment of speech disorders.