Ch. 5: Why Do People Stutter? Evaluating Theories and Models

Question 1

What is a theory?

Answer 1

A proposed explanation, framework, or model of a natural or social phenomenon or set of phenomena.
(Yairi & Seery, 2015)

Question 2

What is a model?

Answer 2

• An ideal prototype of the major parts of a complex phenomenon or system.
• Proposes a set of variables and the relationships among them.
  (Yairi & Seery, 2011, 2015)

Question 3

Models

They help explain how a system works. Example of a model:

Answer 3

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Question 4

Ancient Stuttering Treatments(Limited Evidence of Improvement)

Answer 4

• Talking with pebbles in the mouth (Demosthenes, ancient Greece)
• Surgical resections of the tongue (Germany, 1840s)
• Prosthetic devices (U.S.; France, 1800’s)

Question 5

Imagine 6 stuttering experts observed different phenomena, and arrived at different conclusions:

Answer 5

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Question 6

Types of Causal Factors

Answer 6

• Predisposing - sets up a vulnerability
• Precipitating - triggers episodes or events
• Perpetuating - aggravates or maintains

Question 7

Other Factors

Answer 7

Risk factors – biological or behavioral aspects associated with a disorder; but they do not cause it (e.g., male)

Question 8

Other Factors CONT.

Answer 8

Protective factors - biological or behavioral aspects associated with not having a disorder, but they do not cure it (e.g., female)

Question 9

Example of a Multifactorial Model

Answer 9

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Question 10

Criteria for Strong Theories and Models:

Valid

Answer 10

It fits the observed phenomena

Question 11

Criteria for Strong Theories and Models CONT:

Exhaustive

Answer 11

It explains all associated phenomena

Question 12

Criteria for Strong Theories and Models CONT:

Elegant

Answer 12

It is succinct

Question 13

Criteria for Strong Theories and Models CONT:

Parsimonious

Answer 13

It uses the least ideas to explain the most facts

Question 14

Criteria for Strong Theories and Models CONT:

Exclusive

Answer 14

It does not overlap with other explanations

Question 15

Criteria for Strong Theories and Models CONT:

Testable

Answer 15

Its essence or parts can be proved or disproved

Question 16

Criteria for Strong Theories and Models CONT:

Predictive

Answer 16

It makes predictions about future observations

Question 17

Theories and Models CONT:

Consistent

Answer 17

Its components do not contradict each other

Question 18

Theories and Models CONT:

Flexible

Answer 18

It can easily be adapted with new information

Question 19

Theories and Models CONT:

Explanatory

Answer 19

It serves to explain, not merely describe

Question 20

Testing Theories and Models

Answer 20

• Multiple observations needed as a basis for evidence
• To establish a causal relationship:
  
  • Mere correlation or association of variables is NOT sufficient.
  • Manipulation is needed. Repeatedly create and remove a condition to show that change occurs only with the variable being altered with that condition.

Question 21

Challenges to Stuttering Research

Answer 21

• Difficult to observe its onset - how can we catch the first time it appears?
• Characteristics change with age – is it the same disorder?
• Inconsistent occurrence – why are stuttering events and their conditions so variable?
• Ethical limitations – is it moral to create conditions that may induce stuttering?