The effectiveness of semantic feature analysis: An evidence-based systematic review

Abstract

ObjectivesThis review examines the effectiveness of semantic feature analysis as an intervention to improve naming abilities for persons with aphasia. MethodA systematic search of the literature identified 11 studies that met the pre-determined inclusion criteria. Two independent raters evaluated each study for methodological quality and assigned appropriate levels of evidence using the Single Case Experimental Design scale. To determine clinical effectiveness, effect sizes using Cohen's d were calculated if sufficient data were available. Alternatively, percent of non-overlapping data was calculated. ResultsResults indicated that methodologically sound research has been conducted to determine the effectiveness of semantic feature analysis for persons with aphasia using single subject research designs. When using Cohen's d, the majority of participants showed a small effect size. However, when percent of non-overlapping data was calculated, a large treatment effect was present for the majority of participants. ConclusionsSemantic feature analysis was an effective intervention for improving confrontational naming for the majority of participants included in the current review. Further research is warranted to examine generalization effects.