In order to optimize collaboration between Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs) and parents of children with Developmental Language Disorders (DLD), our
aim was to study what is needed for SLTs to transition from the parent-as-therapist aide
model to the FCC model and optimal collaborate with parents. Chapter 2 discusses the
significance of demystifying collaborative working by making explicit how collaboration
works. Chapter 3 examines SLTs’ perspectives on engaging parents in parent-child
interaction therapy, utilizing a secondary analysis of interview data. Chapter 4 presents
a systematic review of specific strategies that therapists can employ to enhance their
collaboration with parents of children with developmental disabilities. Chapter 5 explores
the needs of parents in their collaborative interactions with SLTs during therapy
for their children with DLD, based on semi-structured interviews. Chapter 6 reports
the findings from a behavioral analysis of how SLTs currently engage with parents of
children with DLD, using data from focus groups. Chapter 7 offers a general discussion
on the findings of this thesis, synthesizing insights from previous chapters to propose
recommendations for practice and future research.
