Clustering of Disfluencies in Informal Conversations of People With Cluttering

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to explore the characteristics of disfluency clusters in cluttering in conversation depending on the relationship of communication partners. Method: Ten-minute speech samples of conversations between people with cluttering (PWC) and people who do not clutter (PWNC) were analyzed for disfluencies. For each sample taken, participants were paired with either friends or unknown partners. PWC were also paired with PWNC and with each other. The influence of the different conversational partners on the type and frequency of disfluency was examined. Results: In all conversation samples, PWC exhibited 2.4 times more complex disfluencies than PWNC. In addition, the frequency of complex disfluencies was influenced by the independent variables of PWC/PWNC and relationship of conversational partner. More complex disfluencies were produced by PWC in the conversations with a PWNC friend and with an unknown PWC as compared to conversations with an unknown PWNC and a PWC friend. Conclusions: Results confirm clinical observations that cluttering disfluencies may increase with more familiar conversational partners. However, atypical speech may also increase severity of symptoms. Findings also provide objective information about cluttering in relatively naturalistic situations.