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Semin Speech Lang 2009; 30(3): 174-186
DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1225954
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Cross-Language Generalization following Treatment in Bilingual Speakers with Aphasia: A Review

Kathryn Kohnert1
  • 1Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
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Publication History

Publication Date:
26 August 2009 (online)

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ABSTRACT

The focus of this article is on the potential transfer or generalization of positive effects from a treated to an untreated language in bilingual or multilingual individuals with primary acquired aphasia. Twelve studies are reviewed: All were previously published in English in peer-reviewed journals. Half of these studies failed to account for spontaneous recovery. Results from the remaining case reports and single-subject studies are mixed, with four finding evidence for cross-language generalization under some conditions and two finding that improved language performance was restricted to the treated language. Collective findings are discussed within the broader literature in terms of factors to consider when planning for effective, efficient intervention with bilinguals with aphasia.

KEYWORDS

Aphasia - bilingual - cross-linguistic transfer - intervention

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Kathryn KohnertPh.D. CCC-SLP 

Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences, 115 Shelvin Hall, 164 Pillsbury Dr., S.E., University of Minnesota

Minneapolis, MN 55455

Email: kohne005@umn.edu

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