Speech-Language Pathologists’ Knowledge and Education Related to Theory of Mind: Survey-Based Research

Abstract

Theory of mind (ToM) involves understanding others’ thoughts and feelings and is related to language abilities. Individuals with communication disorders are at risk of ToM difficulties; however, little is known about speech-language pathologists’ (SLPs’) knowledge, perceptions, and educational preparation related to ToM. SLPs ( N = 95) completed an online survey in which they described their understanding of ToM and answered questions about their educational preparation related to ToM. A thematic analysis of SLPs’ definitions of ToM revealed nine themes represented in participants’ responses including perspective-taking and interpersonal and intrapersonal cognitive and affective ToM. Most SLPs’ definitions included more than one code indicating a multifaceted understanding of ToM; however, most SLPs reported little formal education related to ToM. Although language ability plays a critical role in the development of ToM and SLPs are language specialists, these results suggest that SLPs receive little formal education on these topics. Clinical implications are discussed.