Linguistic performance deficits in stutterers: Relation to laryngeal reaction time profiles

Ben C. Watson, Frances J. Freeman, Sandra B. Chapman, Susan Miller, Terese Finitzo, Kenneth D. Pool, Michael D. Devous

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

17 Scopus citations

Abstract

Converging evidence suggests that stuttering is associated with deficits in the planning and execution of speech. Evidence also suggests that the onset, development, and loci of stuttering are related to demands language places on speech motor planning and execution. We combined linguistic and vocal motor assessments to address two questions: 1) Can we identify a subgroup of adult stutterers who demonstrate linguistic deficits? and 2) Do linguistically normal and impaired stutterers show different patterns of laryngeal reaction time (LRT) as a function of response complexity? Linguistic performance was evaluated using tasks that assess relatively high-level production and comprehension processes. Responses used to record LRT differed in linguistic and motoric complexity. Only linguistically impaired stutterers showed significant increases in LRT for complex responses. Findings suggest that linguistic and motor processes affect the efficiency and fluency of speech motor control and that both processes be made explicit in models of stuttering.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)85-100
Number of pages16
JournalJournal of Fluency Disorders
Volume16
Issue number2-3
DOIs
StatePublished - 1991

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Experimental and Cognitive Psychology
  • Language and Linguistics
  • Linguistics and Language
  • Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Speech and Hearing
  • LPN and LVN

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Linguistic performance deficits in stutterers: Relation to laryngeal reaction time profiles'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this