What aspect of fluency disorders is often targeted for behavior modification therapies?

The focus of behavior modification therapies for fluency disorders is primarily on speech avoidance behaviors. Individuals with fluency disorders, such as stuttering, may develop certain avoidance behaviors as a coping mechanism to prevent speaking situations that could lead to stuttering. These behaviors can include avoiding certain words, substituting words, or withdrawing from conversations altogether.

Behavior modification therapies aim to address these avoidance behaviors directly, encouraging individuals to confront their fears and engage in speaking situations without resorting to avoidance. By doing so, the therapy ultimately helps reduce anxiety and improves overall fluency. The therapy often includes strategies for gradually increasing speaking opportunities and reinforcing positive speaking experiences, thus promoting a more fluent communication style.

Other aspects, such as speech speed, vocal quality, and breath control, may be addressed in therapy as well but are not the primary focus of behavior modification interventions targeted explicitly at reducing avoidance behaviors.