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

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

Flashcards in Ch. 5: Why Do People Stutter? Evaluating Theories and Models Deck (21)
Loading flashcards...
1
Q

What is a theory?

A

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

2
Q

What is a model?

A
  • 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)
3
Q

Models

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

A

See PowerPoint

4
Q

Ancient Stuttering Treatments(Limited Evidence of Improvement)

A
  • Talking with pebbles in the mouth (Demosthenes, ancient Greece)
  • Surgical resections of the tongue (Germany, 1840s)
  • Prosthetic devices (U.S.; France, 1800’s)
5
Q

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

A

See PowerPoint

6
Q

Types of Causal Factors

A
  • Predisposing - sets up a vulnerability
  • Precipitating - triggers episodes or events
  • Perpetuating - aggravates or maintains
7
Q

Other Factors

A

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

8
Q

Other Factors CONT.

A

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

9
Q

Example of a Multifactorial Model

A

See PowerPoint

10
Q

Criteria for Strong Theories and Models:

Valid

A

It fits the observed phenomena

11
Q

Criteria for Strong Theories and Models CONT:

Exhaustive

A

It explains all associated phenomena

12
Q

Criteria for Strong Theories and Models CONT:

Elegant

A

It is succinct

13
Q

Criteria for Strong Theories and Models CONT:

Parsimonious

A

It uses the least ideas to explain the most facts

14
Q

Criteria for Strong Theories and Models CONT:

Exclusive

A

It does not overlap with other explanations

15
Q

Criteria for Strong Theories and Models CONT:

Testable

A

Its essence or parts can be proved or disproved

16
Q

Criteria for Strong Theories and Models CONT:

Predictive

A

It makes predictions about future observations

17
Q

Theories and Models CONT:

Consistent

A

Its components do not contradict each other

18
Q

Theories and Models CONT:

Flexible

A

It can easily be adapted with new information

19
Q

Theories and Models CONT:

Explanatory

A

It serves to explain, not merely describe

20
Q

Testing Theories and Models

A
  • 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.
21
Q

Challenges to Stuttering Research

A
  • 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?