1
|
Raj EX, Daniels DE, Thomson PE. Facebook groups for people who stutter: An extension of and supplement to in-person support groups. JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION DISORDERS 2023; 101:106295. [PMID: 36603411 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcomdis.2022.106295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Online support group experiences, using social networking websites like Facebook, have shown much promise in past research unrelated to stuttering. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the utility of a Facebook-based stuttering support group that was created as an extension of and supplement to an in-person stuttering support group as a means of providing psychosocial support for people who stutter (PWS). METHOD A qualitative approach that was inspired by ethnography was used to explore the experiences of seven participants (six participants who stutter and one participant who does not stutter) who digitally connect on a private Facebook-based stuttering support group that was created as an extension of and supplement to an already existing in-person stuttering support group. The main question posed to the participants related to describing their experiences being a member of the Facebook-based stuttering support group. RESULTS Data analysis revealed two major themes, which included the benefits and challenges of participating in a Facebook-based stuttering support group. Each major theme contained five subthemes. Specific results are discussed with reference to past research, as well as implications for practice and recommendations for future research. CONCLUSIONS There are numerous benefits and challenges associated with being a member of a Facebook-based stuttering support group. However, the overall utility of a Facebook-based stuttering support group, used in tandem with an in-person stuttering support experience, seems to provide members with a useful and impactful way to gain psychosocial support from other PWS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erik X Raj
- Monmouth University, Department of Speech-Language Pathology, 400 Cedar Avenue, West Long Branch, NJ 07764, USA.
| | - Derek E Daniels
- Wayne State University, Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, 5201 Cass Avenue, 103 Prentis Building, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Paula E Thomson
- Monmouth University, Department of Speech-Language Pathology, 400 Cedar Avenue, West Long Branch, NJ 07764, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Naudé A, Bornman J, Kanji A. A Systematic Review of Ethics Knowledge in Audiology Literature: A Follow-Up Study (2011-2020). Am J Audiol 2022; 31:835-844. [PMID: 35944019 DOI: 10.1044/2022_aja-22-00043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This systematic review aimed to update and explore the extant literature (2011-2020) regarding ethics knowledge in audiology and to compare the findings to an earlier study (2001-2010). METHOD This systematic review employed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. RESULTS MEDLINE, CINAHL, ERIC, MasterFILE Premier, E-Journals, Africa-Wide information and Academic Search Premier electronic databases, and non-peer-reviewed papers in Seminars in Hearing yielded a total of 63 papers. Following systematic screening using inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 12 full-text papers were included in this review. Pertinent data and findings from the review were tabulated and analyzed using a qualitative, deductive approach. Results showed that the 12 papers were published in nine peer-reviewed journals with a predominantly social scientific approach. This differs from the earlier review that reported only five papers with a predominantly philosophical approach. However, both the current and earlier studies focused on the rehabilitation/management role of the audiologist. In the earlier study, the focus was on moral judgment (as one of the components of moral behavior), whereas this was the focus of only half of the papers identified in this study, with the remaining papers focusing on moral sensitivity and moral motivation. CONCLUSIONS The focus of papers had evolved and continued to include more elements related to the multiple perspectives used to analyze and describe ethics research. The body of knowledge of ethics in audiology specifically expanded in the area of social scientific research, focusing on beneficence and nonmaleficence, including moral motivation and basing research on moral judgment with the emphasis on the rehabilitation/management and education/research/administration role of audiologists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alida Naudé
- Centre for Augmentative and Alternative Communication, Faculty of Humanities, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Juan Bornman
- Centre for Augmentative and Alternative Communication, Faculty of Humanities, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Amisha Kanji
- Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology, School of Human and Community Development, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Marks E, Handscomb L, Remskar M. "I can see a path forward now": a qualitative investigation of online groups for tinnitus in the time of Covid-19. Int J Audiol 2022:1-8. [PMID: 35499467 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2022.2063195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The Covid-19 pandemic led the British Tinnitus Association to offer more online support to people with tinnitus. The aim of this study was to understand how low-intensity group-based digital interventions could benefit people with tinnitus. DESIGN Semi-structured interviews explored participants' experiences and views on receiving support via an online group. STUDY SAMPLE Sixteen people with tinnitus who had attended a recent online tinnitus group and/or workshop were recruited using convenience sampling. RESULTS Three overarching themes were extrapolated from the data: feeling part of a community, being reliably informed, and living better with tinnitus. CONCLUSIONS Participants reported significant benefits from both types of online group. There was appreciation for the accessibility of help during lockdown, and participants felt that this type of support would continue to be valuable post-pandemic. As seen in research on face-to-face groups, benefits came from a supportive community of people with tinnitus and knowledgeable, skilled and trustworthy facilitation and information provision. Outcomes focussed on feeling less isolated, more informed and hopeful. Online groups could offer an accessible ongoing resource supporting people on their journey with tinnitus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Lucy Handscomb
- Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL Ear Institute, London, UK
| | - Masha Remskar
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Soós MJ, Coulson NS, Davies EB. Exploring Social Support in an Online Support Community for Tourette Syndrome and Tic Disorders: An Analysis of Postings (Preprint). J Med Internet Res 2021; 24:e34403. [PMID: 36194454 PMCID: PMC9579925 DOI: 10.2196/34403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Online support communities have become an accessible way of gaining social, emotional, and informational support from peers and may be particularly useful for individuals with chronic conditions. To date, there have been few studies exploring the online support available for tic disorders, such as Tourette syndrome. An exploratory study looking at users’ experiences with using online support communities for tic disorders suggested that members used such communities to share experiences, information, and strategies for tic management. Objective To build on these preliminary findings, this study examined the provision of social support in an online community for Tourette syndrome. Methods Data were collected from one publicly available online support community for Tourette syndrome and tics, from its inception to December 2019, by randomly selecting 10% of posts and their corresponding comments from each year for analysis. This resulted in 510 unique posts and 3802 comments posted from 1270 unique usernames. The data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Results The findings of this study suggest that users utilized the online community as a multifaceted virtual place where they could share and ask for information about tics, unload and share their feelings arising from living with Tourette syndrome, find people facing similar situations and experiences, and freely share the realities of living with Tourette syndrome. Conclusions The results complement the findings from a preliminary study and suggest that online support communities have a potentially valuable role as a mechanism for sharing and gaining information on illness experiences from similar peers experiencing tics and can promote self-management of tics. Limitations and recommendations for future research are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mercédesz Judit Soós
- Population and Lifespan Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Neil S Coulson
- Population and Lifespan Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - E Bethan Davies
- National Institute for Health and Care Research MindTech MedTech Co-operative, Institute of Mental Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, Institute of Mental Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Manchaiah V, Bennett RJ, Ratinaud P, Swanepoel DW. Experiences With Hearing Health Care Services: What Can We Learn From Online Consumer Reviews? Am J Audiol 2021; 30:745-754. [PMID: 34491785 DOI: 10.1044/2021_aja-21-00041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The aim of this study was to examine experiences of hearing health care services as described in online consumer reviews. Design This study used a cross-sectional design. Online consumer reviews about hearing health care services generated from Google.com to an open-ended question "Share details of your own experience at this place" and perceived overall experience (indicated on a 5-point rating scale: "very good" to "very poor") were extracted from 40 different cities across the United States. The open text contributed a text corpus of 9,622 unique consumer reviews. These responses were analyzed with the cluster analysis approach using an open-source automated text analysis software program, IRaMuTeQ, to identify key themes. Association between clusters and consumer experience ratings as well as consumer metadata (percentage of older adults in the city, region) were examined using the chi-square analysis. Results The majority of consumers appeared satisfied with their hearing health care services, with nearly 95% of consumers reporting "very good" and "good" on the global experience scale. The analysis of text responses resulted in seven clusters within two domains. Domain 1 (Clinical Processes) included the three clusters: administration processes, perceived benefits, and device acquisition. Domain 2 (Staff and Service Interactions) included the four clusters: clinician communications, staff professionalism, customer service, and provider satisfaction. Content relating to administration processes was associated with overall rating regarding the hearing health care service experience. Consumer's reviews relating to administration processes mostly described negative experiences, and these participants were more inclined to provide poorer overall experience ratings. In addition, city characteristics (i.e., percentage of older adults, region) had bearing toward what elements of hearing health care services are highlighted more in the consumer reviews. Conclusions Consumers comment on a variety of elements when describing their experiences with hearing health care services. Experiences reported in most clusters were generally positive, although some concerns in the "clinical process" are associated with lower satisfaction. Employing patient-centered strategies and ensuring patients have good experiences in the areas of concern may help improve both patient experience and their satisfaction. Supplemental Material https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.16455924.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vinaya Manchaiah
- Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences, Lamar University, Beaumont, TX
- Department of Speech and Hearing, School of Allied Health Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, India
| | - Rebecca J. Bennett
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Western Australia
- Ear Sciences Centre, School of Surgery, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
| | | | - De Wet Swanepoel
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Western Australia
- Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Manchaiah V, Swanepoel DW, Bailey A, Pennebaker JW, Bennett RJ. Hearing Aid Consumer Reviews: A Linguistic Analysis in Relation to Benefit and Satisfaction Ratings. Am J Audiol 2021; 30:761-768. [PMID: 34436933 DOI: 10.1044/2021_aja-21-00061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Online reviews have been used by hearing aid owners to share their experiences and to provide suggestions to potential hearing aid buyers, although they have not been systematically examined. The study was aimed at examining the hearing aid consumer reviews using automated linguistic analysis, and how the linguistic variables relate to self-reported hearing aid benefit and satisfaction ratings. Method The study used a cross-sectional design. One thousand three hundred seventy-eight consumer hearing aid reviews (i.e., text response to open-ended question), self-reported benefit and satisfaction ratings on hearing aids in a 5-point scale with meta-data (e.g., hearing aid brand, technology level) extracted from the Hearing Tracker website were analyzed using automated text analysis method known as the Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count. Results Self-reported hearing aid benefit and satisfaction ratings were high (i.e., mean rating of 4.04 in a 5-point scale). Examining the association between overall rating and the key linguistic variables point to two broad findings. First, the more people were personally, socially, and emotionally engaged with the hearing device experience, the higher they rated their hearing device(s). Second, a minimal occurrence of clinic-visit language dimensions points to factors that likely affect benefit and satisfaction ratings. For example, if people mention paying too much money (money), their overall ratings are generally lower. Conversely, if people write about their health or home, the ratings were higher. There was no significant difference in linguistic analysis across different hearing aid brands and technology levels. Conclusions Hearing aid consumers are generally satisfied with their hearing device(s), and their online reviews contain information about social/emotional dimensions as well as clinic-visit related aspects that have bearing toward hearing aid benefit and satisfaction ratings. These results suggest that the natural language used by consumers provide insights on their perceived benefit/satisfaction from their hearing device.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vinaya Manchaiah
- Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences, Lamar University, Beaumont, TX
- Department of Speech and Hearing, School of Allied Health Sciences, Manipal University, India
| | - De Wet Swanepoel
- Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Western Australia
- Ear Sciences Centre, School of Surgery, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
| | | | | | - Rebecca J. Bennett
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Western Australia
- Ear Sciences Centre, School of Surgery, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Bennett RJ, Swanepoel DW, Ratinaud P, Bailey A, Pennebaker JW, Manchaiah V. Hearing aid acquisition and ownership: what can we learn from online consumer reviews? Int J Audiol 2021; 60:917-926. [PMID: 34120557 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2021.1931487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the publicised opinions of consumers actively participating in online hearing aid reviews. DESIGN A retrospective design examining data generated from an online consumer review website (www.HearingTracker.com). Qualitative data (open text responses) were analysed using the open source automated topic modelling software IRaMuTeQ (http://www.iramuteq.org/) to identify themes. Outputs were compared with quantitative data from the consumer reviews (short response questions exploring hearing aid performance and benefit, and some meta-data such as hearing aid brand and years of hearing aid ownership). STUDY SAMPLE 1378 online consumer hearing aid reviews. RESULTS Six clusters within two domains were identified. The domain Device Acquisition included three clusters: Finding the right provider, device and price-point; Selecting a hearing aid to suit the hearing loss; Attaining physical fit and device management skills. The domain Device Use included three clusters: Smartphone streaming to hearing aids; Hearing aid adjustment using smartphone; and Hearing in noise. CONCLUSIONS Although online hearing aid consumers indicate positive performance on multiple-choice questions relating to hearing aid performance and benefit, their online reviews describe a number of barriers limiting their success. Hearing healthcare clinicians must employ a personalised approach to audiological rehabilitation to ensure individual clients' needs are met.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Bennett
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Australia.,Ear Sciences Centre, School of Surgery, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
| | - De Wet Swanepoel
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Australia.,Ear Sciences Centre, School of Surgery, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia.,Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
| | | | | | - James W Pennebaker
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Vinaya Manchaiah
- Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences, Lamar University, Beaumont, TX, USA.,Department of Speech and Hearing, School of Allied Health Sciences, Manipal University, Manipal, India
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Burden RS, Galloway LN, Rothpletz AM, Glasheen KA, Preminger JE. The Development of an Internet-Based Decision Coaching Guide to Encourage Audiology Care: The Results of a Participatory Design Approach. Am J Audiol 2020; 29:546-563. [PMID: 32946253 DOI: 10.1044/2020_aja-19-00066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of the research described here is to create a theoretically based, interactive online program to motivate adults with untreated hearing loss to seek audiology care. We describe the results of the participatory design (PD) approach used to increase uptake and adherence to the Internet-based program. Method Using information gathered from field experts (n = 7), a program outline was generated by the study team. In keeping with PD principles, multiple focus groups and panels consisting of persons with hearing loss (n = 26), frequent communication partners (n = 6), audiologists (n = 9), and other area experts (n = 16) revised and expanded both content and design of the program in an iterative fashion. Results The proposed program was modified multiple times based on the input of stakeholders throughout the PD process. In particular, the scope of the program shifted from focusing on self-management strategies to decision coaching regarding the choice to visit an audiologist. Other specific program content and activities were modified based on stakeholder input. Conclusions The program evolved dramatically through the influence and input of multiple stakeholders as a result of the implementation of PD principles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca S. Burden
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery and Communicative Disorders, University of Louisville, KY
| | - Laura N. Galloway
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery and Communicative Disorders, University of Louisville, KY
| | - Ann M. Rothpletz
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery and Communicative Disorders, University of Louisville, KY
| | - Keira A. Glasheen
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery and Communicative Disorders, University of Louisville, KY
| | - Jill E. Preminger
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery and Communicative Disorders, University of Louisville, KY
- School of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, San Diego State University, CA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Almugathwi M, Wearden A, Green K, Hill-Feltham P, Powell R. Online support group users' perceptions and experiences of bone-anchored hearing aids (BAHAs): a qualitative study. Int J Audiol 2020; 59:850-858. [PMID: 32522055 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2020.1771440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Objective: Better understanding of the decision-making process for bone-anchored hearing aid (BAHA) candidates has been identified by clinicians as a research priority. This study aimed to understand experiences and perceptions of BAHA candidates and users who use online support groups.Design: One thousand posts retrieved from a public UK-based online support group were thematically analysed.Study sample: Messages were posted by 270 BAHA users and candidates.Results: Individuals used the online group to obtain information about BAHAs and support for decision-making regarding accepting BAHA surgery and wearing a percutaneous device. BAHA users evaluated the efficacy of the system, perceiving it to be highly effective in improving their hearing. The BAHA influenced individuals' self-image and impacted their social lives. Fears of surgery and post-implantation infections were regarded as challenges to be faced when choosing to accept implantation.Conclusions: BAHA candidates found the online support group useful in helping them to decide whether or not to proceed with surgery, and the personal experiences of BAHA users were predominantly positive. However, it is not clear to what extent such positive experiences are representative of BAHA users more generally, and candidates need to be aware of this when using these groups to support decision-making.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manal Almugathwi
- School of Health Sciences and Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Alison Wearden
- School of Health Sciences and Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Kevin Green
- Department of Otolaryngology, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Penny Hill-Feltham
- Department of Audiology, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Rachael Powell
- School of Health Sciences and Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kimball SH, Hamilton T, Benear E, Baldwin J. Determining Emotional Tone and Verbal Behavior in Patients With Tinnitus and Hyperacusis: An Exploratory Mixed-Methods Study. Am J Audiol 2019; 28:660-672. [PMID: 31430190 DOI: 10.1044/2019_aja-18-0136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate the emotional tone and verbal behavior of social media users who self-identified as having tinnitus and/or hyperacusis that caused self-described negative consequences on daily life or health. Research Design and Method An explanatory mixed-methods design was utilized. Two hundred "initial" and 200 "reply" Facebook posts were collected from members of a tinnitus group and a hyperacusis group. Data were analyzed via the LIWC 2015 software program and compared to typical bloggers. As this was an explanatory mixed-methods study, we used qualitative thematic analyses to explain, interpret, and illustrate the quantitative results. Results Overall, quantitative results indicated lower overall emotional tone for all categories (tinnitus and hyperacusis, initial and reply), which was mostly influenced by higher negative emotion. Higher levels of authenticity or truth were found in the hyperacusis sample but not in the tinnitus sample. Lower levels of clout (social standing) were indicated in all groups, and a lower level of analytical thinking style (concepts and complex categories rather than narratives) was found in the hyperacusis sample. Additional analysis of the language indicated higher levels of sadness and anxiety in all groups and lower levels of anger, particularly for initial replies. These data support prior findings indicating higher levels of anxiety and depression in this patient population based on the actual words in blog posts and not from self-report questionnaires. Qualitative results identified 3 major themes from both the tinnitus and hyperacusis texts: suffering, negative emotional tone, and coping strategies. Conclusions Results from this study suggest support for the predominant clinical view that patients with tinnitus and hyperacusis have higher levels of anxiety and depression than the general population. The extent of the suffering described and patterns of coping strategies suggest clinical practice patterns and the need for research in implementing improved practice plans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne H. Kimball
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, College of Allied Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City
| | - Toby Hamilton
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Allied Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City
| | - Erin Benear
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, College of Allied Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City
| | - Jonathan Baldwin
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences, College of Allied Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Manchaiah V, Amlani AM, Bricker CM, Whitfield CT, Ratinaud P. Benefits and Shortcomings of Direct-to-Consumer Hearing Devices: Analysis of Large Secondary Data Generated From Amazon Customer Reviews. JOURNAL OF SPEECH, LANGUAGE, AND HEARING RESEARCH : JSLHR 2019; 62:1506-1516. [PMID: 31034320 DOI: 10.1044/2018_jslhr-h-18-0370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Purpose The current study was aimed at understanding the benefits and shortcomings of direct-to-consumer hearing devices (DCHDs) by analyzing the large text corpus of secondary data generated from Amazon customer reviews. Method Secondary data were generated manually by gathering user feedback for 62 different DCHDs (cost range: $9.95-$635) on the Amazon.com website, which included 11,258 unique Amazon-verified customer reviews. The data were analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative analyses methods. Results The cluster analysis of large data corpus resulted in 7 unique clusters, which were labeled as (a) Issues related to fit and comfort (15%), (b) Friends and family recommendations (11.8%), (c) Issues related to sound quality (11.9%), (d) Listening and conversation (16.1%), (e) Positive customer service (12.1%), (f) General usage and customer service (14.7%), and (g) Cost and affordability (17.3%). Exploratory analysis also revealed an association between customer ratings and cost in relation to these clusters (i.e., customer reviews). For example, customer reviews about cheaper DCHDs are related to issues about sound quality, whereas reviews about expensive DCHDs are related to cost and affordability of the device. The qualitative content analysis resulted in 8 main themes, which include (a) intrinsic factors, (b) extrinsic factors, (c) supplemental items, (d) ease of use, (e) interaction with support services, (f) reasons for purchase, (g) experiences, and (h) general information. Conclusions The study using the text mining techniques highlights the benefits and shortcomings of DCHDs that are currently available in the U.S. market. Our findings relate well to the published study results of electroacoustic analysis on similar products, which provide clinicians with knowledge related to DCHDs that they can convey to consumers during clinical consultations. The findings may also be of interest to the hearing instrument industry from the perspective of developing products based on user feedback.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vinaya Manchaiah
- Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences, Lamar University, Beaumont, TX
- Department of Speech and Hearing, School of Allied Health Sciences, Manipal University, Karnataka, India
- Audiology India, Mysore, Karnataka
| | - Amyn M Amlani
- Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology, College of Health Professions, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock
| | | | - Clayton T Whitfield
- Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology, College of Health Professions, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Preminger JE, Laplante-Lévesque A, Saunders GH, Hughes ML. Internet and Audiology: A Review of the Third International Meeting. Am J Audiol 2018; 27:373-375. [PMID: 30452741 DOI: 10.1044/2018_aja-imia3-18-0147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE In this introduction, the four members of the scientific committee for the Third International Meeting on Internet and Audiology describe the meeting that took place at the University of Louisville on July 27-28, 2017. METHOD This special issue, with a decidedly clinical focus, includes 14 articles that arose from presentations given at the Third International Meeting on Internet and Audiology. All touch upon the theme of innovation as it pertains to teleaudiology and mobile health (mHealth), application of Big Data to audiology, and ethics of internet and telemedicine. CONCLUSION Innovations in teleaudiology, mHealth, and Internet-based audiology are developing at a rapid pace and thus research in the field must continue. We invite readers to the next International Meeting on Internet and Audiology that will take place in Southampton, England, June 17-18, 2019.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jill E. Preminger
- University of Louisville School of Medicine, Program in Audiology, Louisville, KY
| | - Ariane Laplante-Lévesque
- Oticon Medical, Smørum, Denmark
- Linköping University, Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Gabrielle H. Saunders
- National Center for Rehabilitative Auditory Research, Portland, OR
- Eriksholm Research Centre, Snekkersten, Denmark
| | - Michelle L. Hughes
- University of Nebraska–Lincoln, College of Education and Human Sciences–Special Education and Communication Disorders
| |
Collapse
|