What does "generalization" refer to in the context of speech therapy?

In the context of speech therapy, "generalization" refers to a client's ability to apply the skills and techniques they have learned during therapy to various situations outside of the therapy environment. This is crucial because the ultimate goal of speech therapy is not only to improve communication skills in a structured setting but also to enable individuals to use those skills in everyday interactions. For example, if a child learns to articulate certain sounds correctly during sessions, generalization would mean that they can also use those sounds correctly when speaking with friends, family, or in other varied social situations. This ability is vital for ensuring that the progress made during therapy translates into real-world communication effectiveness. Such a concept underscores the importance of practicing skills in diverse settings and formats to promote lasting behavioral changes.