Response generalization in apraxia of speech treatments: taking another look

The purpose of the present paper is to present a critical review and reanal ysis of response generalization effects in studies of treatment efficacy in apraxia of speech (AOS). Response generalization takes two forms: generali zation of treatment effects to untrained exemplars of trained behaviors and generalization to untrained (i.e., novel) behaviors. In the past, response generalization has not been extensive and typically has been restricted to untrained exemplars of trained behaviors. Reasons for these findings are d iscussed with reference to recent advances in our understanding of the natu re of AOS and to theories of speech motor control and learning. The discuss ion focuses on the influence of the theoretical basis used to develop hypot heses and select behaviors to test predictions, the complexity of the treat ment task/s, and patient characteristics. Suggestions for future directions in treatment efficacy research are offered. Learner outcomes: (1) An under standing of the nature of AOS, based on recent experimental analyses. (2) A n understanding of the efficacy of current treatments for AOS in the area o f response generalization. (3) An understanding of how theories of speech m otor control might be applied to develop hypotheses for testing and increas e effectiveness in treatment studies. (4) An understanding of how theories of speech motor control might guide selection of behaviors to test treatmen t effects and response generalization. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Inc. All r ights reserved.