Perceptions of three groups of interlocutors of the effects of aphasia on communication: an exploratory study

Aphasia has an effect on both the transactional functions (e.g. exchanging information) and the interactional functions (e.g. establishing relationshi ps) of communication. The goal of the present study was to explore the perc eptions of physicians, spouses and adolescents of the effect of aphasia on both functions of communication and to identify their compensatory strategi es. This study confirms: (1) that the interactional function of communicati on and its subsequent breakdown in aphasia should not be minimised; and (2) that the perceived effect of aphasia on this function is influenced by the interlocutor. Family members perceived a greater effect of aphasia on inte ractional functions while physicians were generally preoccupied with the tr ansactional functions. The importance of addressing both functions of commu nication as well as the importance of intervening at the interlocutor level to reduce the situations of handicap is stressed.