Supporting Communication Between Individuals With Disabilities and First Responders: A Preliminary Case-Based Interview Study.

Autor: DePew, Savanah C., Thistle, Jennifer J.
Předmět:
Zdroj: Perspectives of the ASHA Special Interest Groups; Feb2022, Vol. 7 Issue 1, p115-122, 8p
Abstrakt: Purpose: During a crisis, an individual with a communication disability or difference is at risk of communication breakdowns that could unintentionally escalate the crisis. The goal of this preliminary study was to identify how first responders from various organizations may respond given scenarios presenting potential interactions with an individual with a communication impairment or difference. Method: Three adult participants currently serving as first responders completed semistructured interviews. Participants were asked how they would react in different hypothetical scenarios, all incorporating aspects of communication disorders and differences that could be misinterpreted. Data analysis consisted of transcribing the responses to each scenario and identifying the themes. Results: Participants across organizations receive general communication and disability training, rely on established procedures, problem-solving, open-mindedness, and use of departmental resources in their interactions. Conclusions: This preliminary study illustrates awareness of existing protocols and organizational supports that may support interactions with individuals with communication disorders and differences. Potential areas for additional resources and training include the use of augmentative and alternative communication and disability-specific education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Databáze: Complementary Index