The use of superimposed rhythm to decrease the rate of speech in a brain-damaged adolescent

Journal/Book: Journal of Music Therapy. 1988; 25: 85-93.

Abstract: Explores the implementation of rhythm to decrease the rate of speech in an 18-yr-old female with right-hemispheric injuries and Kluver-Bucy Syndrome. A reversal design was used to determine whether rhythm could be used effectively as a monitoring device to slow down the Ss' excessively fast rate of speech. Data demonstrated an 11% decrease in rate of speech when melody and rhythm were used. The use of a rhythmic variable without melody caused a 28% decrease in speech rate. ABSTRACT 2: Music therapy has been used increasingly in neuropsychological rehabilitation. However, the majority of literature written about music therapy and brain-trauma clients discusses those clients with left-hemispheric complications. This study explores the implementation of rhythm to decrease the rate of speech in an 18-year old adolescent with right hemispheric injuries and Luver-Bucy syndrome. A reversal design (ABA-CAC) was implemented to determine whether rhythm could be used effectively as a monitoring device to slow down the subject's excessively fast rate of speech. The data demonstrated an 11% decrease in rate of speech from the original baseline when melody and rhythm were employed. The use of a rhythmic variable without melody caused a 28% decrease in speech rate from the original baseline. Posttest information reinforced the conclusion that a generalization of skills had occurred. This study recommended further exploration of the application of rhythm with right-brain injured clients as an effective system to treat dysfunctions in speech rate.

Note: use of superimposed rhythm without melody; decreased rate of speech; 18 yr old female with brain damage & Kluver Bucy Syndrome

Keyword(s): Music therapy; speech rate; brain damage; syndromes ; adulthood

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