Stuttering severity measurement through objective and perceptual event-related methodologies, and interval scoring

Samenvatting

The long lasting practice of stuttering severity measurement through objective and/or perceptual event-related procedures has been challenged in recent research literature. Interval scoring has been suggested as an alternative procedure because of its empirically demonstrated improvement of intra- and inter-rater reliability compared to the event-related procedures. Yet, this advantage has not yet tempted most practicing clinicians. Moreover, a number of questions have surfaced regarding possible limitations in validity of the interval based strategy for stuttering severity measurements. While interval scoring improves aspects of reliability in stuttering evaluations, and to a significant degree, it’s ability to effectively depict the nature, and the ‘subjective’ components, of stuttering severity has not been properly tested, and, unfortunately, while such tests may not be logically possible. This paper reviews and evaluates advantages and disadvantages of traditional and current event-and interval based procedures for the measurementofstuttering severity. In doing so it addresses (1) how each measure works, (2) what types of results are available with it, and (3) how differences in such results can differentially affect clinical decisions.