Audio-Psycho-Phonology at Potchefstroom: A Review

Audio-psycho-phonology (APP) has been hailed by some critics as refreshingly new, dynamic, pioneering and revolutionary, whilst others question the theoretical principles and the therapeutic approach, inter alia, because of the strong accent on clinical observations and the lack of rigorous empirical backing. This article presents a short outline of the Tomatis APP approach as well as an overview of eight empirical studies conducted in South Africa on topics such as laterality, stuttering, anxiety, and the application of the technique to the severely mentally retarded. The studies indicate positive effects, such as improved self-control, self-concept, interpersonal relations and achievement functioning. However, identified methodological deficiencies limit the degree to which the gains can be attributed to the APP approach alone. Finally, the authors propose the adoption of a research strategy that is more likely to identify, and produce an understanding of the strategies, agents and mechanisms by which different elements of the APP approach produce their results.