What is it about?

Historically, the professions of speech-language pathology and audiology have not been diverse in terms of race, ethnicity, and gender. This study aimed to understand what unique challenges students majoring in CSD experienced by asking students about their experiences as students from underrepresented backgrounds using a survey.

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Why is it important?

The data showed that over half of the students experienced microaggressions based on their racial and linguistic identity by teachers, clinical supervisors, and/or classmates. In addition to raising awareness about these microaggressions, we also provided strategies to better support students who experience them. Only by understanding these challenges and learning how to respond to them in a culturally responsive manner can the professions of speech-language pathology and audiology begin to become more diverse and inclusive.

Perspectives

Writing this paper was a very meaningful experience both personally and professionally. We were given the privilege and responsibility of bringing to light very personal stories of students who may have otherwise not had a chance to be heard. After reading the paper, we challenge you to consider ways that you can make your classroom, clinic, or workplace a space that is safe and inclusive of all voices.

Mariam Abdelaziz
North Carolina Central University

Read the Original

This page is a summary of: Student Stories: Microaggressions in Communication Sciences and Disorders, American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology, September 2021, American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA),
DOI: 10.1044/2021_ajslp-21-00030.
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Contributors

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