The natural occurrence of generalization during articulation treatment

This study examined the extent to which generalization of correct phoneme production occurred in various speaking environments and across word positions without direct training. Three preschool children with articulation disorders received treatment in a clinic setting. Treatment targets consisted of specific phonemes restricted to particular word positions. Data were collected on the children's productions of the target phonemes in treated and untreated word positions. In addition, the children's productions were monitored with different adults in the clinic and at home. The results indicated that generalization occurred in the two speaking environments without direct training. The extent to which generalization occurred across word position varied and seemed to be related to specific phonemes. The practical implications of the results and methodology are discussed.