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From:
Date: 21 Oct 2004
Time: 15:49:20 -0500
Remote Name: 209.161.242.233
Amanda, thanks for your detailed and positive comments. Please read my reply to Stephanie, as it answers some of your questions. Active involvement of parents is the key to this program’s success! In terms of research, unfortunately, because of our clinical focus and lack of funding, we are not likely to be able to analyze our data unless we are able to attract a research partner. In analyzing the data I think we would also have to develop some sensitive instruments to capture the myriad of subtle and complex information. Nevertheless, the feedback we have received and the fact that we often do not have to offer children additional therapy, speaks for itself, and we do feel that we are making a positive impact. I do agree however that we would be in a better position to demonstrate the efficacy of this program with research and I am constantly hopeful that we will in fact be able to attract a research partner. I think part of the success of our program is offering peer support at the same time as therapy. While I am not aware of any similar parent group programs in the USA, several programs follow a similar program curriculum on an individual basis (e.g. The Stuttering Center of Western Pennsylvania). You might like to ask Scott Yaruss this same question (on “Ask the Researcher” on this conference). I do know however, that in England, parent groups are run for older children at the Michael Palin Centre for Stammering Children in London. I also know that the National Stuttering Association and Friends are keen to have parents get into support groups.