Well-Being and Resilience in Children With Speech and Language Disorders

• Published in: Journal of speech, language, and hearing research Vol. 61; no. 2; p. 324
• Main Authors: Lyons, Rena, Roulstone, Sue
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: American Speech-Language-Hearing Association 01.02.2018
• Subjects: Childhood speech disorders; Developmentally disabled children; Diagnosis; Evaluation; Methods; Resilience (Personality trait); Speech therapy
• ISSN: 1092-4388; 1558-9102
• DOI: 10.1044/201_JSLHR-L-1-01

Purpose: Children with speech and language disorders are at risk in relation to psychological and social well-being. The aim of this study was to understand the experiences of these children from their own perspectives focusing on risks to their well-being and protective indicators that may promote resilience. Method: Eleven 9- to 12-year-old children (4 boys and 7 girls) were recruited using purposeful sampling. One participant presented with a speech sound disorder, 1 presented with both a speech and language disorder, and 9 with language disorders. All were receiving additional educational supports. Narrative inquiry, a qualitative design, was employed. Data were generated in home and school settings using multiple semi-structured interviews with each child over a 6-month period. A total of 59 interviews were conducted. The data were analyzed to identify themes in relation to potential risk factors to well-being and protective strategies. Results: Potential risk factors in relation to well-being were communication impairment and disability, difficulties with relationships, and concern about academic achievement. Potential protective strategies were hope, agency, and positive relationships. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of listening to children's narratives so that those at risk in relation to well-being can be identified. Conceptualization of well-being and resilience within an ecological framework may enable identification of protective strategies at both individual and environmental levels that can be strengthened to mitigate negative experiences.