[Improvement of communication behavior of laryngectomized and voice-rehabilitated patients by a psychological training program]

Abstract

An important goal of laryngectomee rehabilitation is achieving the best possible result in voice restoration. In addition to good voice quality, efficient intelligibility in daily conversation requires specific communication skills, which are very often neglected in speech therapy. In this study 51 male laryngectomees were randomized to an intervention group or an attention control group. After hospital discharge the intervention group participated in a psychological training program aimed at improving the communication behavior of the laryngectomees. This training was part of a comprehensive rehabilitation program (lasting over six months) and consisted of four modules: Improvement of communication over the disability; Discrimination of factors affecting intelligibility; Development of behavioral strategies for improving intelligibility in daily conversation; Transferring the strategies to daily live. The effectiveness of training was evaluated by a questionnaire which covered three important aspects of communication behavior. As a result of the intervention the patients influenced more effectively their own communication behavior and also influenced more adequately the behavior of typical communication partners. Present finding with the psychological training program demonstrated that the communication behavior of laryngectomees can be significantly improved.