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Dr. Rick Arenas, Associate Professor in the Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences at the University of New Mexico, is back to discuss his research related to better understanding variability and anticipation. Specifically, Dr. Arenas discusses a  study conducted in collaboration with his student, Amanda Ortiz-Alvarez, "A Phenomenological Investigation of the Contextual Variability and Anticipation of Stuttering." [Linked below] Dr. Arenas begins by describing the concepts of anticipation and variability as they relate to stuttering and then walks us through the study development, findings, and future implications. 

Link to Full Text Article (via the UNM Thesis Repository)

"A Father's Advice" By: Rick Arenas

Bio: Dr. Rick Arenas is an Associate Professor in the Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences at the University of New Mexico.  He received a bachelor's degree in Speech and Hearing Science, a master's degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology and a Ph.D. in Speech and Hearing Science all from the University of Iowa.  His primary research interest is in developmental stuttering.  He is interested in the anticipation of stuttering and the contextual variability of stuttering: Why is it that stuttering occurs consistently more frequently in particular contexts?  Recently his research has transitioned toward the way people relate to their stuttering and how it plays a role in their personal narrative.  Using qualitative methods, he is investigating how people who stutter change their thoughts and beliefs to live harmoniously with stuttering.  The overall goal is to translate research findings in to more effective treatments for stuttering in order to lessen the social and emotional impacts of the disorder.

For Questions/ Feedback, email Sara: [email protected]