Unpacking the Black Box: A Systematic Search and Narrative Review of Components in Pediatric Speech and Language Therapy Sessions

There is limited empirical data describing components of pediatric speech-language therapy sessions across the range of practice areas. In many cases, intervention sessions function as a "black box" with internal workings insufficiently documented or understood. This systematic search and review investigates how pediatric speech-language pathology intervention sessions are described and measured.A systematic search and review were conducted based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Five databases were searched for peer-reviewed, empirical studies published from 2003, where the primary research focus was describing and measuring the constituent components in pediatric speech-language pathology intervention sessions. Screening was completed in duplicate; data were extracted, and studies were critically appraised. Narrative analysis was used to describe the findings.A total of 680 studies were found; 18 met the eligibility criteria. The main components measured related to treatment intensity and interpersonal interaction were measured by counting occurrences, recording time, and assigning ratings.The two main ways speech-language therapy sessions were described were via measures of intensity and interpersonal interaction. Understanding the measurement of these areas can guide the development of comprehensive tools to describe and compare sessions, informing and enhancing clinical practice.