MA, University of Cincinnati, 2001, Allied Health Sciences : Communication Sciences and Disorders

The purpose of this study was to obtain data from parents or caregivers on the first five words produced by their child. Thirteen infants' (C.A. 0:9 to 1:1) first five words were analyzed according to Clark's (1973) Asemantic feature hypothesis to determine whether a preferential hierarchy exists among various perceptual features including (e.g., shape, size, color, function, touch/texture ). The grammatical classification/content of the words was also evaluated in determining what grammatical categories were most frequently represented. Lastly, the communicative intent of the words was investigated to establish what communicative intents prevail in the use of infant=s first five words. Results indicated that no preferential hierarchy existed in relation to the most salient features in Clark's (1973) semantic feature hypothesis. The features real, abstract, shape, size, and function were most frequently represented. A Chi Square statistical analysis revealed no difference between the use of real or abstract words. Nominals were found to compose almost half of the total words produced with evidence of other categories being used including action words, adjectives, modifiers, and personal/social words. Lastly, it was determined that all communicative intentions studied were represented in subjects first five words excluding request for information . However, naming/labeling, social intents , and requests for objects predominated.

Committee: Dr. Nancy Creaghead (Advisor) Subjects: Health Sciences, Speech Pathology