Jones & Bartlett Learning publishes 'Introduction to Neurogenic Communication Disorders'

M. Hunter Manasco, Ph.D., C.C.C.-S.L.P., assistant professor of speech-language pathology at Misericordia University, has had the textbook and video combination, "Introduction to Neurogenic Communication Disorders,'' published by Jones & Bartlett Learning.

"Introduction to Neurogenic Communication Disorders'' introduces students to common adult communication disorders and associated neuroanatomy and neurophysiology. It also offers the added bonus of access to a companion website with videos featuring examples of adult communication disorders and associated neuroanatomy and neurophysiology. The illustrative case studies provide actual examples of symptoms, deficits and pathological behaviors.

The videos and in-text features offer "Author's Note'' vignettes and "Clinical Note'' practical insights to underscore the human element of communication disorders. Overall, the textbook and video combination examines what students need for a thorough introduction to neurogenic communication disorders and provides a window into the real-world practices of speech-language pathologists for students.

The Jones & Bartlett Learning textbook is the third book written by Dr. Manasco. He has also written "An Exceptional Children's Guide to Touch: Teaching Social and Physical Boundaries to Kids,'' which was published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers of London, England, and "The Way to A: Empowering Children with Autism Spectrum and Other Neurological Disorders to Monitor and Replace Aggression and Tantrum Behavior'' published by Autism Asperger Publishing Company of Overland Park, Kan.

"An Exceptional Children's Guide to Touch: Teaching Social and Physical Boundaries to Kids'' was illustrated by Dr. Manasco's wife, Katharine Manasco. The purpose of the 80-page paperback is to educate children with special needs on social rules regarding appropriate and inappropriate forms of touching. It can be used to empower children to recognize abuse and to encourage them to reach out for help if they feel they are being abused. The book also has a section for adults with information for caregivers and professionals regarding how to recognize child abuse and who to contact if they believe a child is being abused.

"The Way to A: Empowering Children with Autism Spectrum and Other Neurological Disorders to Monitor and Replace Aggression and Tantrum Behavior'' focuses on behavior modification techniques for children with autism who display aggression and tantrum behavior.

Dr. Manasco specializes in treating children with autism and other neurological disorders. He has extensive professional experience working with children in schools, hospitals and university health clinics, including the Misericordia University Speech-Language and Hearing Center on campus. Dr. Manasco holds Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in speech-language pathology from the University of Montevallo in Alabama, as well as a Ph.D. from the University of South Alabama.

As a speech-language pathologist, his areas of specialization include neuroanatomy, aphasia, motor speech disorders, dysphagia, traumatic brain injury, dementia and autism. Dr. Manasco also has worked with adults as a speech-language pathologist in acute and long-term care settings, as well as hospice, and adult rehabilitation. He has presented numerous research papers in his areas of specialty at state, national and international conferences.