In this contribution, we focus on interactions between aphasic patients and speech-language therapists during speech-language therapy sessions. By emphasizing the interactive and multimodal nature of therapeutic activities, our study examines phenomena of coordination and of establishment and negotiation of visual attention. The analysis focuses on a series of moments when the therapist solicits the patient’s gaze through the use of several resources, including gaze directives. These solicitations make it possible to guide visual attention toward certain elements of the context, and to negotiate participatory configurations in order to take advantage of the forms of scaffolding offered by the therapist and to accomplish tasks collaboratively. We highlight the importance of the professional gestures and bodily resources employed by the therapist, and analyze the method by which the patient is “instructed” to perceive these resources. Pertaining to several aspects of Goodwin’s work, our contribution highlights interactive and socially organized practices through which the therapeutic institution for the treatment of aphasia takes shape.
Merlino, S. (2021). Coordination, visual attention, and professional gestures in the treatment of aphasia. LANGAGE ET SOCIÉTÉ (PARIS), 137(2), 115-140.
Coordination, visual attention, and professional gestures in the treatment of aphasia
Merlino Sara
2021-01-01
Abstract
In this contribution, we focus on interactions between aphasic patients and speech-language therapists during speech-language therapy sessions. By emphasizing the interactive and multimodal nature of therapeutic activities, our study examines phenomena of coordination and of establishment and negotiation of visual attention. The analysis focuses on a series of moments when the therapist solicits the patient’s gaze through the use of several resources, including gaze directives. These solicitations make it possible to guide visual attention toward certain elements of the context, and to negotiate participatory configurations in order to take advantage of the forms of scaffolding offered by the therapist and to accomplish tasks collaboratively. We highlight the importance of the professional gestures and bodily resources employed by the therapist, and analyze the method by which the patient is “instructed” to perceive these resources. Pertaining to several aspects of Goodwin’s work, our contribution highlights interactive and socially organized practices through which the therapeutic institution for the treatment of aphasia takes shape.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.