dc.description.abstract | The diversity of the United States population is increasing, and thus the field of speechlanguage
pathology must be able to not only effectively treat diverse individuals but understand
demographic’s effects on medical diagnosis, treatment diagnosis, and overall assessment and
intervention. Speech-language pathologists’ use of evidence-based practice requires research that
is representative and effective for the individuals receiving speech-language services. There
currently exists significant underrepresentation and overall underreporting of the demographic
characteristics of speech-language pathology research participants. Empirical research articles
and notes from the American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology were reviewed and
analyzed to gather data concerning the levels and trends of reporting participants’ race, ethnicity,
home language, and bilingualism. Current speech-language pathology graduate students were
surveyed about their perceptions and reactions to the reporting of participant demographic
characteristics. Participant race/ethnicity was reported in 39%, participant home language was
reported in 46%, and inclusion of bilingual participants was reported in 15% of research articles
and notes. More than 60% of the graduate students were surprised by the frequency of which
participant demographic characteristics were reported and believed ASHA journals should
require authors to report on participants’ demographics. In conclusion, the findings highlighted a
need for inclusion and reporting of diverse participants and their demographics. This is crucial to
most effectively assess and treat all individuals requiring speech-language services. | en_US |