On the prediction of phonologic generalization learning patterns

The purpose of this study was to obtain information on six children's misarticulation of consonant clusters in order to illustrate how certain factors influence generalization learning patterns. While all subjects evidenced generalization, individual differences in learning patterns did emerge. These patterns were explained in terms of the following three factors: (1) information about the children's unique knowledge about the phonologic system, (2) the linguistic relationships among sounds, and (3) the interaction of these factors with the treatment target. The implications of this explanation are discussed as they relate to the selection of treatment targets that will facilitate generalization.