Date of Award
12-2024
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
<--Please Select Degree-->
Department
Communication Sciences and Disorders
First Advisor
Alison King
Second Advisor
Erin Wallace
Third Advisor
Ronda Walker
Abstract
This study explores how caregivers and speech-language pathologists (SLPs) perceive caregiver involvement in pediatric speech therapy services. The research addresses how and when caregiver input is solicited, and to what extent the services children receive reflect caregivers’ expressed concerns and priorities. Using a two-phase survey design, caregivers and speech-language pathologists from private practices in Virginia provided quantitative responses on the importance, frequency, and effectiveness of collaboration. Overall, caregivers reported moderate levels of involvement (mean score: 3.88/5). Contrary to conventional wisdom, caregivers’ level of involvement was not directly correlated with their level of satisfaction, suggesting other factors, such as communication quality or therapy outcomes, may play a larger role. While caregivers and speech-language pathologists were generally aligned on the overall importance and frequency of parental involvement, important differences emerged. While 95% of speech-language pathologists reported soliciting caregiver input regarding augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), only 18% of caregivers recalled such discussions. Similarly, engagement around respecting families of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds was reported by 68% of speech-language pathologists, but only 6% of caregivers. The findings illustrate the need for structured opportunities to engage caregivers and promote inclusive practices in therapy. These results have implications for improving collaboration between caregivers and speech-language pathologists through enhanced training, clearer communication, and standardized processes for caregiver input. Future research should focus on larger, more diverse populations and explore longitudinal changes in caregiver satisfaction and engagement.
Recommended Citation
Ticknor, Kathryn, "Caregiver Involvement in Pediatric Speech-Language Pathology" (2024). Theses & Honors Papers. 561.
https://digitalcommons.longwood.edu/etd/561
