Some comments on aspects of the methodology for the measurement of stuttering

Abstract

The measurement of stuttering in a conversational context presents certain problems that are difficult to resolve despite a vast literature on the appraisal of stuttering behaviour. This view stems from problems encountered in a study designed to gauge the effects of conflict generated in a family context, on the stuttering behaviour of the child. Conflict was defined as a social process and was induced for the purpose of this study, by a standardised communication conflict situation. The results of the study were not significant, however, it was not concluded that stuttering and conflict are not related. Rather, there are difficulties in establishing this relationship. One of the difficulties concerns the measurement of stuttering. This paper is concerned with some aspects of the methodology for the measurement of stuttering that seem inadequate for research that has as its data, conversational interaction in a family context. Some alternative strategies are suggested.

Conversion disorder in childhood and adolescence: A familial/cultural approach Part I.

“…Referral histories suggest that patients presenting such symptoms are often examined at the local level by general practitioners or, in more severe cases, at local somatic hospitals. This is supported by findings from other parts of the world, such as the United States and Israel (3, 5, 16, 18, 21). The figures from these reports taken together seem to indicate that patients exhibiting conversion symptoms and treated in medical settings are unlikely to be further referred for psychological/ psychiatric evaluation and treatment.…”