Hyperfunctional voice disorders in children are a prevalent issue in school settings, affecting a significant percentage of the student population. According to the research by Hartman and Arcus (1978), implementing a structured intervention framework within the child's natural environment can lead to effective and lasting vocal behavior changes. This blog aims to help practitioners enhance their skills by applying the triadic intervention model, as outlined in the research.
Understanding the Triadic Model
The triadic intervention model involves three key roles:
- Consultant: A professional with knowledge of the problem, such as a speech-language pathologist.
- Mediator: An individual from the child's natural environment who has control over the child's reinforcers and can dispense them contingently.
- Target: The child with the hyperfunctional voice disorder.
The primary goal of this model is to facilitate behavior change by leveraging the influence of individuals who are naturally part of the child's environment, such as parents, teachers, and peers.
Steps for Practitioners
Practitioners can follow these steps to implement the triadic intervention model effectively:
- Evaluation and Identification: Evaluate the child's vocal behavior and identify specific behaviors to be modified. Choose behaviors that are obvious to the child and amenable to rapid change.
- Consultation with Mediators: Identify potential mediators in the child's environment, such as teachers, parents, or peers. Explain the vocal behaviors to be modified and the role of the mediator in monitoring and reinforcing these behaviors.
- Contract and Reinforcement: Create a contract with the child outlining the behaviors to be modified and the goals for improvement. Discuss potential reinforcers for vocal improvement and establish reward contingencies with the mediators.
- Program Implementation: Meet with the mediators and the child to review the program, determine reinforcers, and establish review periods. Monitor progress and adjust goals and strategies as needed.
Benefits of the Triadic Model
Applying the triadic model offers several advantages:
- Natural Environment: The intervention takes place in the child's natural environment, promoting generalization of new behaviors.
- Continuous Monitoring: Mediators can provide continuous monitoring and reinforcement, leading to more consistent behavior change.
- Collaborative Effort: Involves collaboration between the consultant, mediators, and the child, fostering a supportive network for the child.
Encouraging Further Research
While the triadic model shows promise, further research is needed to compare its long-term effectiveness with traditional methods of treating communication disorders. Practitioners are encouraged to stay informed through conferences, publications, and webinars, and to consider contributing to research in this area.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Management of Hyperfunctional Voice Disorders in Children Through Triadic Interventions.
