- Abstract Semantic Associative Network Training
What is It?
- Abstract Semantic Associative Network Training (AbSANT) is a therapy designed to help individuals improve their ability to retrieve abstract words and concepts. By focusing on the relationships between abstract ideas, this method strengthens semantic connections and helps patients better access and use abstract language.
How does it work?
In AbSANT, people with aphasia are encouraged to associate abstract concepts with related concrete ideas, images, or scenarios. For example, for the word “freedom,” they might connect it with concepts like “choice,” “open spaces,” or “birds flying.” This process strengthens semantic networks and aids in word retrieval.
How does it help?
AbSANT targets Anomic aphasia by addressing difficulties with abstract word retrieval, which is often impaired in individuals with semantic network deficits. It focuses primarily on speaking and vocabulary expansion but may also improve reading comprehension as patients strengthen conceptual associations.
How do you do it?
Start by introducing an abstract concept and try to describe or associate it with related concrete ideas. For instance, ask, “What do you think of when you hear the word ‘freedom’?” Use visual aids, prompts, or examples if needed. Try to create sentences or stories using the abstract word in context.
At Home
You can practice AbSANT principles at home with these activities:
- Category sorting: Create cards with words (both abstract and concrete) from a particular context (like "hospital") and sort them
- Feature analysis: For each abstract word, list qualities that describe it (like whether it's an idea, a feeling, positive or negative)
- Word connections: For each abstract word, try to think of related concrete words in the same context
- Synonym practice: Generate synonyms for abstract words
- Free naming: Practice naming as many words as possible (both abstract and concrete) related to a specific context
Signs of Progress
Look for these improvements:
- Increased ability to retrieve trained abstract words
- Improved retrieval of concrete words in the same context
- Greater ease in expressing opinions and feelings
- More complete sentences in conversation
- Less frustration when trying to communicate abstract ideas
Using Our Website
Our website offers:
- Interactive activities for practicing AbSANT principles
- Context categories with both abstract and concrete words
- Feature selection exercises
- Synonym matching for abstract words
- Progress tracking to monitor your improvement
Remember that abstract words are essential for expressing opinions, feelings, and ideas, making them particularly important for natural conversation. By strengthening your ability to retrieve abstract words, you can improve your overall communication abilities.