Prolonged Speech

Definition

Prolonged speech is a speech therapy technique designed to help individuals who stutter by encouraging them to elongate their speech sounds and syllables, aiming for a more fluent speech pattern. This technique allows speakers to control their rate of speech and reduce instances of stuttering by creating a smoother flow of words. Prolonged speech is an integral part of many fluency enhancement programs and can lead to improved communication skills.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Prolonged speech encourages the speaker to take their time, allowing for better control over their articulation and timing.
2. This technique often requires practice in both structured therapy sessions and real-life speaking situations to become effective.
3. Prolonged speech can help decrease the anxiety associated with speaking for those who stutter by building confidence through mastery.
4. The approach can be combined with other therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, to address both the physical and emotional aspects of stuttering.
5. Research has shown that using prolonged speech can lead to lasting improvements in fluency for many individuals who stutter.

Review Questions

• How does prolonged speech impact the fluency of individuals who stutter?
  • Prolonged speech positively impacts fluency by encouraging individuals who stutter to elongate their speech sounds, which helps create a smoother and more controlled flow of words. This technique allows speakers to manage their pacing and articulation more effectively, reducing instances of stuttering. Over time, practicing prolonged speech can lead to increased confidence in speaking abilities, further enhancing overall fluency.
• Compare and contrast prolonged speech with other techniques used in fluency shaping therapy.
  • Prolonged speech differs from other fluency shaping techniques like easy onset or light articulatory contacts. While prolonged speech focuses on lengthening sounds and syllables to promote a smoother flow, easy onset encourages a gentle initiation of phonation to prevent tension buildup. Both methods aim to improve fluency but may be more effective depending on individual needs. Integrating multiple techniques can provide a comprehensive approach to managing stuttering.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of prolonged speech as a long-term strategy for individuals who stutter in various communicative contexts.
  • The effectiveness of prolonged speech as a long-term strategy is significant as it not only enhances fluency but also builds self-confidence in communicative contexts. Studies indicate that individuals who consistently practice prolonged speech experience lasting improvements, allowing them to communicate more freely in social, academic, and professional settings. However, its success largely depends on regular practice and integration into everyday conversations, making it essential for therapists to encourage real-world application alongside structured therapy sessions.

Related terms

Stuttering: A speech disorder characterized by disruptions in the flow of speech, which may include repetitions, prolongations, or blocks.

Fluency Shaping: A therapeutic approach that focuses on modifying speech patterns to promote fluent communication, often incorporating techniques like prolonged speech.

Speech Therapy: A treatment aimed at improving speech and language skills, often used to address various speech disorders including stuttering.