NCT05668923 · University of Pittsburgh
Speech Signals in Stuttering
What this study is about
The purpose of this research study is to understand how speech and language are processed in the brain. This study will provide information that may help with the understanding how speech and language are processed in children and whether there may be differences between children who stutter and children who do not stutter.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this research study is to understand how speech and language are processed in the brain. This study will provide information that may help with the understanding how speech and language are processed in children and whether there may be differences between children who stutter and children who do not stutter. This project will evaluate these neural processes for speech signals in children who stutter and control subjects through a battery of behavioral speech and language tests, electroencephalography-based (EEG) tasks, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and computational modeling.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Speaks English as primary language
- Language abilities within the typical range
- Cognitive abilities within the typical range
- No contraindications for MRI Inclusion criteria for children who stutter:
- Presence of developmental stuttering (onset in childhood)
- No history of other communication disorder Inclusion criteria for children who do not stutter:
- No family history of stuttering
- No history of other communication disorders (e.g., hearing impairment, language impairment, cognitive impairment/injury)
Exclusion criteria
- Taking medication that alters neural function
- Cognitive skills below the typical range
- Major medical illness
- Not a fluent speaker of English
- Pregnant or possibly pregnant
- Metal implants in your body (including pacemakers, neurostimulators, or other metal objects)
- Shrapnel injuries
- Ocular foreign bodies (e.g., metal shavings)
- Metal piercings that cannot be removed for the scan
- Tattoos containing iron or metal pigments
- Prone to claustrophobia
- For fMRI, those with head circumference greater than 60cm or whose weight is more than 300 pounds will be excluded due to the size of the fMRI magnet bore
Where
- Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Sep 15, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations