Date Approved

2025

Degree Type

Open Access Senior Honors Thesis

Department or School

Special Education and Communication Sciences and Disorders

First Advisor

Leslie Blome Ed.D., CCC-SLP

Second Advisor

Audrey Farrugia, Ph.D., CCC-SLP

Third Advisor

Jacquelyn McGinnis, Ph.D

Abstract

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) frequently serve autistic students in the school setting. Research reveals a correlation between autism, sensory processing, and pediatric feeding disorder (PFD). As a result, autistic students may have compromised nutritional health and safety, which stands to impact their ability to access the curriculum. PFD is under the scope of the school-based speech-language pathologist’s practice. However, data has shown a perceived lack of confidence and a limited number of support and resources in the educational setting for SLPs to carry out interventions. This qualitative study will seek to understand the perspectives of elementary school-based SLPs regarding the implementation of feeding and swallowing interventions at school.

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