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From: Alan Badmington (to Natasha)
Date: 20 Oct 2006
Time: 14:40:15 -0500
Remote Name: 84.68.23.148
Hi Natasha, Thank you for continuing this discussion. You asked, "What would your response be if a person who stutters approaches you about using a device?". I would tell him/her that, in my opinion, such devices can play (and are playing) a part in allowing some PWS to enjoy a better quality of life. I would stress that, in my humble opinion, it is neither a 'quick-fix' nor an instant solution. I simply cringe when the media portrays it in that light. I would express my belief that such devices are best used in conjunction with some kind of therapy/approach or stuttering management. I would suggest that the user should become proactive whilst wearing the apparatus - accepting speaking challenges, in order to expand comfort zones. As I mentioned in my response to Megan, if PWS restrict their use of the device to less challenging environments, then they will continue to have self-limiting beliefs about those situations that they avoid. The old fears, doubts and negative emotions will remain. I made the most visible progress when I discarded the Edinburgh Masker and joined a specific speech programme in May 2000. It was the final piece of the jigsaw - everything fell into place. However, I realise that the 20 years of wearing the Masker (during which I expanded my comfort zones) had allowed me to create a system that would subsequently support greater fluency and self-expression later in my life. Although I was proud of what I had achieved while wearing the Masker, the things that I've done after discarding the device have tasted a little sweeter. I suppose it's due to the fact that I have been walking unaided - without my mechanical crutch. Once I abandoned the Masker, I never considered using it again - even in very challenging situations. Had I done so, I feel that it would have prolonged my dependence. Having gained independence, I did not want to be tempted to fall back on the technological support. Besides, my speech became so strong (due to the techniques/tools/support network etc afforded by the new programme), that I felt confident enough to progress alone. I believe that my decision to severe the connection expedited the change in my stuttering mindset. My progress (and successes) during the past six years have confirmed that the path I took was correct (and appropriate) for ME. Each client is different - it would be inappropriate to adopt a standard approach for all. I wish you every success with your studies. Kindest regards Alan