Promoting speech intelligibility through phonologically dense targets

Abstract

This multiple baseline single-case study focused on the implementation of two theoretically motivated models relevant to speech sound disorders (SSD): (1) complexity approach and (2) phonological density neighborhood variable. The complexity approach perspective predicted that complex intervention target stimuli would yield greater phonological gains on more complex targets after systematic phonological intervention. Furthermore, phonologically dense targets would promote speech intelligibility as these stimuli 'tax' productive outputs demand on par with complexity approach. A 4; 6 year-old Greek-speaking male diagnosed with a SSD received phonological intervention for 6 months. Therapy goals included: (1) the reduction of phonological process use and (2) the improvement of output intelligibility. Phonological gains were revealed in cluster reduction leading in increases in the proportion of consonant correct use and improvements in the use of correct whole word matches. Phonological gains were observed for untreated word stimuli. Our findings support the synergistic relationship of Complexity Approach and Phonological Density variable in promoting positive speech outcomes and effectiveness of phonological intervention in the child examined.