Article

PURPOSE: To evaluate the function of Talking Mats (TM) in a discussion group for
people with Huntington's disease (HD). METHOD: Four persons with HD and their
group leader participated. The group was videotaped during four discussions, two
with and two without TM. A mixed method quantitative and qualitative study was
implemented by evaluating the conversations using the protocol Effectiveness
Framework of Functional Communication by analyzing the number of follow-up
questions and by post discussion interviews. RESULTS: The results showed improved
effectiveness of communication for all participants and an increased number of
follow-up questions, both from the group leader and from some of the
participants. All participants and the leader were positive regarding the use of
TM but there were also drawbacks. CONCLUSIONS: TM could be useful in discussion
groups for people with HD. An increased number of follow-up questions when TM is
used may lead to a deeper understanding within the group. This study is the first
of its kind and more research in the area is needed. [Box: see text].

Langue : ANGLAIS