Examining the Effects of Pause Times on Auditory Comprehension Utilizing Secondary Data Analysis

In this secondary data analysis research study, existing data were analyzed in order to compare behavioral and electrophysiological performance in an individual with aphasia and an individual with no brain damage. The effects of pauses of different durations (i.e., 1, 2, or 3 seconds) inserted within a spoken message were analyzed by examining behavioral and electrophysiological data. Data analyzed included correct response rate, behavioral reaction time, and N400 event related potential (ERP) component amplitude and latency. The following research questions were examined: Is there a difference between the individual with aphasia and the individual with no brain damage for each pause time 1) in average correct response rate, 2) in behavioral reaction time, 3) in amplitude of the N400 ERP component, 4) in latency of the N400 ERP component, and 5) in brain location engagement relative to electrode placement. The results of this secondary research study suggest that pause times of different durations have an effect on auditory comprehension. Behavioral results found that longer pause times resulted in improved auditory comprehension for both participants. Both participants appeared to benefit from the 3 second pause, however, the individual with aphasia had a lower correct response rate and more cortical activity than the individual with no brain damage. Clinical implications from this study suggest that pause times inserted in spoken messages may be beneficial since it can provide individuals with aphasia increased time to process the information