Sarah Atkinson

• BSc (Hons) Speech and Language Sciences
• Using the Behaviour Change Technique Taxonomy to describe and classify an expert speech and language therapist’s intervention techniques

The Behaviour Change Technique Taxonomy (BCTT) comprises 93 labels and descriptions of techniques used in healthcare interventions to change behaviour   e.g. smoking cessation and healthy eating. The BCTT can form a basis for the collective classification of techniques used by many healthcare professionals. This will enhance both healthcare interventions and students’ clinical education.

To date the BCTT has not been applied to speech and language therapy (SLT) interventions with children. This study uses the BCTT to describe and classify SLT techniques in intervention for a child with language, literacy and behavioural difficulties. It involved analysing videos of the intervention, matching the techniques to BCTT labels and creating definitions for new techniques.  The observed techniques were compared to techniques identified in the treatment manual. This testing of treatment fidelity, is required in devising and evaluating all new interventions. It was found that the use of the BCTT aided this procedure significantly.

Funding source: Newcastle University

Supervisor: Dr Helen Stringer