Praxis SLP Licensure Exam

What type of training could improve a communication partner's effectiveness when a patient experiences frequent communication breakdowns?

1. Writing skills practice

2. Repair strategies training

3. Active listening techniques

4. Articulation correction exercises

The correct answer is: Repair strategies training

Repair strategies training is particularly effective in improving a communication partner's ability to navigate and resolve communication breakdowns. This type of training focuses on teaching individuals how to identify when a breakdown occurs and what strategies they can use to re-establish communication. Techniques might include asking clarifying questions, rephrasing what was said, or summarizing the information to ensure understanding. By equipping communication partners with these strategies, they become more adept at managing misunderstandings and facilitating clearer exchanges, ultimately leading to more successful interactions. This approach is especially important in environments where frequent breakdowns are a challenge, as it directly addresses the need for immediate and effective responses to communication difficulties. In contrast, the other options, while beneficial in specific contexts, do not target the immediate need to repair communication when breakdowns occur. Writing skills practice and articulation correction exercises focus on skills related to linguistic or phonetic abilities but do not address the dynamic nature of communication in real-time interactions. Active listening techniques enhance overall communication but may not specifically equip a partner with the tools needed to repair misunderstandings effectively.