Semantic Feature Analysis

SKILL: Talking

DIFFICULTY: 2/5

LEVELS: NA

BRIEF RATIONALE: This treatment improves word retrieval by analyzing the semantic features of a word.

In Semantic Feature Analysis, you will see a picture of a noun and a question prompt. Use the audio button to replay the text at the top of the screen at any time. You will see 6 feature buttons at the bottom of the screen, each with its own question prompt:

CATEGORY: What type of thing is this?
FUNCTION: What does it do? What do you do with it?
LOCATION: Where do you find it?
DESCRIPTION: How would you describe it? (material, color, shape, size, parts, texture, sound, taste)
ASSOCIATION: What does this make you think of?
NAME: What is it called?

CHECK: A check button is available for each feature that provides an example response and self-scoring buttons. The red button indicates incorrect, the orange button indicates correct with support, and the green button indicates correct without assistance.

FOR THE CLINICIAN: This treatment is based on the evidence supporting Semantic Feature Analysis and the Spreading Activation Theory, which suggests that activating neural networks surrounding a word will strengthen the target word. Studies have also found generalization to non-targeted words using this approach.

Selected References:

Boyle, M. (2010). Semantic Feature Analysis treatment for aphasic word retrieval impairments: What’s in a name? Topics in Stroke Rehabilitation, 17(6), 411-422.
Efstratiadou, E. A., Papathanasiou, I., Holland, R., Archonti, A., & Hilari, K. (2018). A systematic review of semantic feature analysis therapy studies for aphasia. Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research : JSLHR, 61(5), 1261–1278.
Evans, W. S., Cavanaugh, R., Gravier, M. L., Autenreith, A. M., Doyle, P. J., Hula, W. D., & Dickey, M. W. (2021). Effects of semantic feature type, diversity, and quantity on semantic feature analysis treatment outcomes in aphasia. American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology, 30(1S), 344–358.
Scholl, D.I., McCabe, P., Nickels, L., and Ballard, K.J. (2021). Outcomes of semantic feature analysis treatment for aphasia with and without apraxia of speech. International Journal of Language & Communication Disorders, 56, 485-500.
Silkes, J. P., Fergadiotis, G., Graue, K., & Kendall, D. L. (2021). Effects of phonomotor therapy and semantic feature analysis on discourse production. American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology, 30(1S), 441–454.