ETS Domain: Treatment

Praxis 5331 Stuttering Treatment Questions

Stuttering treatment items on the Praxis 5331 go beyond identifying disfluency types — they test whether you can choose the right approach for the right age and severity. The fluency shaping vs stuttering modification distinction shows up repeatedly, along with age-specific programs like Lidcombe for preschoolers.

Why this topic matters

Fluency treatment appears in nearly every Praxis cycle in age-specific scenarios.
ETS often contrasts fluency shaping and stuttering modification — knowing the philosophical difference is high-yield.
Preschool early intervention (Lidcombe) is heavily tested because it is one of the most evidence-based SLP programs.

High-yield concepts

Fluency shaping: teach a fundamentally new speech pattern (slow rate, easy onset, continuous phonation) to eliminate stuttering.
Stuttering modification (Van Riper): change the WAY the client stutters, reduce fear and avoidance, promote easier moments.
Lidcombe: operant, parent-delivered verbal contingencies for preschool children — strongest evidence for children under 6.
School-age often uses a combined approach with self-awareness and desensitization.
Adults benefit from a combined approach including cognitive-behavioral components addressing communication attitude.

Sample practice questions

Try answering before revealing the rationale — mark misses to retry later.

Q1.A 4-year-old boy has been stuttering for 8 months. His parents report he is becoming aware and frustrated. Which approach has the strongest evidence base?

A.Wait-and-see for another 12 months
B.Lidcombe Program with parent-delivered verbal contingencies
C.Adult-style stuttering modification
D.Speech-only therapy without parent involvement

Show answer & rationale

Correct: B. Lidcombe has the strongest evidence base for preschoolers who stutter. Waiting risks entrenchment when the child already shows awareness/frustration. Adult modification approaches are not developmentally appropriate.

Q2.The primary goal of stuttering modification (Van Riper) is to:

A.Eliminate all stuttering through slow, easy speech
B.Change how the client stutters and reduce fear/avoidance
C.Teach parents to give verbal praise for smooth talking
D.Use delayed auditory feedback devices

Show answer & rationale

Correct: B. Stuttering modification's goal is easier, more open stuttering with less struggle and avoidance — not elimination. Fluency shaping is the approach focused on new speech patterns.

Q3.An adult who stutters says he 'never gets stuck alone, only in front of people.' The SLP should prioritize:

A.Fluency shaping targeting slow-rate technique only
B.A combined approach including desensitization and communication attitude
C.Referral to a psychiatrist for anxiety medication
D.Choral reading exercises only

Show answer & rationale

Correct: B. Situational variability signals a strong affective/cognitive component. A combined program including desensitization, voluntary stuttering, and attitude change is best supported for adults.

Common wrong-answer traps

Choosing wait-and-see for a preschooler already showing awareness and frustration.
Confusing fluency shaping (new pattern) with stuttering modification (easier stuttering).
Missing the affective component in adult stuttering scenarios.

Study moves this week

Make a 2-column chart: fluency shaping vs stuttering modification with goals, techniques, and typical clients.
Memorize Lidcombe's core components: parent-delivered, verbal contingencies, structured then unstructured, weekly clinic visits.
Draft two adult stuttering goals: one behavioral, one cognitive/affective.

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FAQ

Is Lidcombe appropriate for school-age children?

Lidcombe is designed for preschoolers. School-age children typically need a combined approach that includes self-awareness and cognitive components.

Does slowing speech rate cure stuttering?

No — rate techniques are one tool. Comprehensive treatment addresses fluency, communication attitude, and situational fears.

Should adults who stutter aim for complete fluency?

Not usually. Realistic goals emphasize easier stuttering, reduced avoidance, and confident communication, not perfect fluency.

Praxis 5331 Stuttering Treatment Questions

Why this topic matters

High-yield concepts

Sample practice questions

Common wrong-answer traps

Study moves this week

Want 400+ scenario questions with rationales?

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