title: Using and building theory in clinical action.
abstract: The unique contribution of speech-language pathologists to human welfare is shaped by clinical decisions. These decisions are, consciously or unconsciously, guided by theory, yet, clinicians are not routinely given the tools to construct and communicate theoretical practices in their work. This paper provides clinicians with two ways of thinking about theory so it can be used in clinical action. The first is a discussion of the relationship between specific and general theory so each can be recognized in clinical practices. The second is presentation of Bamberg's hexad as a tool for analyzing theory within clinical situations. A Venn model, used to conceptualize the links between general theory, specific theory, and clinical action, is discussed as a conceptual organizer for theory building in communicative sciences and disorders.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  As a result of this activity, participants will (1) understand how theory can be used as a tool during clinical action, (2) understand the relationship between general and specific theory, and (3) understand how Bamberg's hexad can be used to analyze clinical action and build theory.
authors.affiliation: Department of Communication Disorders, University of Houston, TX 77204-6018, USA. hagstrom@uh.edu
authors.forename: F
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Hagstrom
mesh_terms: D002648:Child; D015510:Clinical Medicine / Q000193:education*; D004496:Education, Continuing; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D011582:Psychological Theory