Abstract
In this paper, I investigated the structure of therapeutic approaches which seek to improve speech motor control. Treatments discussed can be defined as “a process to optimize relearning of speech motor control through operation of variables on those speech production seems to depend.” I classified variables and manners of operation in some advocated treatments and analyzed speech therapy based on “Bobath Approach” by using this framework. The characteristics of this approach are as follows: (1) utilization of automatic oral movements, including eating, in order to practice elements of speech movement; (2) consideration of the normal postural control mechanisms, which are the basis of skilled movements; (3) improvement of postural tone and movement patterns of the whole body and oral area. The differences between Bobath approach and others are also discussed.
