Praxis SLP Licensure Exam

What is the primary goal of the Lidcombe program in stuttering therapy?

1. To provide counseling to parents

2. To train parents in fluency techniques

3. To modify speech patterns directly

4. To measure stuttering frequency

The correct answer is: To train parents in fluency techniques

The primary goal of the Lidcombe program is centered on training parents in fluency techniques. This approach emphasizes the significant role that parents play in their child's speech therapy journey, particularly in a structured and supportive manner. By equipping parents with specific techniques to reinforce fluent speech during everyday interactions, the program aims to create a naturalistic environment where the child can practice and generalize these skills outside of therapy sessions. In this context, parents are trained to use praise and feedback consistently, helping to encourage successful fluent speech in their child. This parent-empowerment model ensures that the child receives ongoing practice in speech fluency even when not in a clinical setting, which fosters a greater likelihood of improvement over time. Other aspects of stuttering therapy may involve direct speech modification or counseling services; however, the uniqueness of the Lidcombe approach lies in its collaborative nature between parents and children aimed at promoting fluency.