Features of culturally and linguistically relevant speech‐language assessments for Indigenous children: A scoping review

Abstract

IntroductionIndigenous children may be at higher risk of being misdiagnosed with speech‐language difficulties due to Eurocentric practices in health care and education. The use of conventional speech pathology assessment practices contributes to inappropriate disorder identification, further stigmatising a vulnerable population. Few resources are available for speech pathologists, which examine the cultural and linguistic relevance of assessments for this population.ObjectiveTo provide important features for speech pathologists to account for when building assessment plans for Indigenous children.DesignThis comprehensive scoping literature review was completed using the Arksey and O'Malley 6‐step methodological framework, including the optional consultation exercise, and reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA‐ScR) guidelines. To be included, studies needed to have been published since 2000, discuss speech‐language assessments and involve a significant proportion of Indigenous participants under 7 years old.FindingsThree features were extracted from 32 studies that discussed First Nations, Métis, Inuit, Native American, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities: using a battery of resources including alternative approaches, ensuring authenticity and cultural relevance, and considering a child's linguistic characteristics.ConclusionWhile there remains a need to adapt according to a specific child's reality, this study provides a guideline for all allied health clinicians when they are building their culturally and linguistically relevant assessment plans.