An Employment Interview Desensitization Program Addressing the Speech, Attitudes, and Avoidance Behaviors of People Who Stutter

Abstract

Previous research suggests that people who stutter experience limitations when seeking employment due to their stuttering and/or subsequent avoidance behaviors. The current case study examined the efficacy of a therapy program designed to address the disfluent speech, negative attitudes, and avoidance behaviors displayed by people who stutter when preparing for and participating in an employment selection interview. Both quantitative and qualitative methods were used in the investigation. Results indicated that the participant made some positive gains in all three target areas. The significance of these findings is discussed.