Publication Date

2011-04-20

Availability

Open access

Embargo Period

2011-04-20

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PHD)

Department

Teaching and Learning (Education)

Date of Defense

2011-04-12

First Committee Member

Elizabeth Harry

Second Committee Member

Batya Elbaum

Third Committee Member

Marjorie Montague

Fourth Committee Member

Jeffrey Brosco

Abstract

The purposes of this qualitative inquiry were as follows: (a) to understand how mothers of children with fragile X syndrome (FXS) used augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems in the home, (b) to capture their views regarding AAC use, and (c) to examine the support they received in the process. Data was collected using participant observations, semi-structured interviews and review of archival educational records and were analyzed using grounded theory methods. Results revealed that for children with FXS, the interplay of children’s complex developmental challenges, mothers’ internal struggles, and the absence of external supports leads to limited and variable use of AAC in the home.

Keywords

augmentative and alternative communication; fragile X syndrome, communication impairments, language intervention, parent perspectives, AAC use in the home

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