AAC Communication Board

What is Phonological Components Analysis?

Developed and modeled after Semantic Feature Analysis (SFA), Phonological Components Analysis (PCA) is an evidence-based technique that aims to improve awareness of phonological properties of words and support word retrieval in PWA. First introduced by Leonard et al. (2008), PCA showed positive outcomes in 7 out of the 10 individuals studied and some generalization for untrained words. Van Hees et al. (2013) further investigated PCA by comparing it to SFA. In this study, 7 out of 8 people showed improvements for treated words with PCA and only 4 people showed improvements with SFA (Van Hees et al., 2013). Van Hees et al., 2013 suggests that individuals with semantic difficulties will likely have more success with PCA and it is expected that individuals with phonological deficits will show improvements with both treatment techniques. 

Leonard, C., Rochon, E., & Laird, L. (2008). Treating naming impairments in aphasia: Findings from a phonological components analysis treatment. Aphasiology, 22(9), 923-947.

Van Hees, S., Angwin, A., McMahon, K., & Copland, D. (2013). A comparison of semantic feature analysis and phonological components analysis for the treatment of naming impairments in aphasia. Neuropsychological Rehabilitation, 23(1), 102-132.

This PDF includes:

• PCA how-to guide

• 1 Data tracking form

• 113 Target pictures

• PCA treatment activities

• Cueing examples 

• Answer keys