| Abstract: |
Extends the results of J. L. Aten et al (see record 1982-12763-001) with an investigation of the effects of a relatively more structured group treatment program on the communication ability of 10 chronically aphasic patients. Ss participated in a 60-wk program that included 2 series of 20 wks of group treatment and 10 wks of treatment withdrawal. Ss made gains in overall communication ability after 20 wks of structured group treatment, and initial gains were retained throughout treatment withdrawal. Reinitiation of structured treatment after a no-treatment interval resulted in a significant gain in communication ability as measured by the Porch Index of Communicative Ability (PICA). Significant Communicative Ability of Daily Living test gains were limited to the 1st treatment interval. Whereas the communication treatment emphasis was similar in this study and that of Aten et al, the structuring of the intervention in the present study apparently enhanced the skills tested by the PICA. |
