Response generalization in apraxia of speech treatments: taking another look.

The purpose of the present paper is to present a critical review and reanalysis of response generalization effects in studies of treatment efficacy in apraxia of speech (AOS). Response generalization takes two forms: generalization 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 discussed with reference to recent advances in our understanding of the nature of AOS and to theories of speech motor control and teaming. The discussion focuses on the influence of the theoretical basis used to develop hypotheses and select behaviors to test predictions, the complexity of the treatment task/s, and patient characteristics. Suggestions for future directions in treatment efficacy research are offered. Learner outcomes: (1) An understanding of the nature of AOS, based on recent experimental analyses. (2) An understanding of the efficacy of current treatments for AOS in the area of response generalization. (3) An understanding of how theories of speech motor control might be applied to develop hypotheses for testing and increase effectiveness in treatment studies. (4) An understanding of how theories of speech motor control might guide selection of behaviors to test treatment effects and response generalization.