generalization

generalization

 [jen″er-al-ĭ-za´shun]

the formation of a general principle or idea; inductive reasoning.

generalization of learning the application of previously learned concepts and behaviors to similar situations, a cognitive performance component of occupational therapy.

gen·er·al·i·za·tion

(jen'ĕr-ăl-i-zā'shŭn),

1. Rendering or becoming general, diffuse, or widespread, as when a primarily local disease becomes systemic.

2. The reasoning by which a basic conclusion is reached, which applies to different items, each having some common factor.

generalization

[jen′(ə)rəlīzā′shən]

Etymology: L, genus, kind; Gk, izein, to cause

1 the reasoning by which a basic conclusion is reached, with application to different items that have a common factor.

2 the process of reducing or subsuming under a general rule or statement, such as classifying items in general categories.

3 a principle with general application.

4 (in occupational therapy) the ability of a patient to apply knowledge and skills learned in therapy to a variety of similar but new situations.

gen·er·al·i·za·tion

(jen'ĕr-ăl-ī-zā'shŭn)

1. Rendering or becoming general, diffuse, or widespread, as when a primarily local disease becomes systemic.

2. The reasoning by which a basic conclusion is reached, which applies to different items, each having some common factor.

3. Categorization that obscures differences between people or situations (e.g., age categories).
Synonym(s): generalisation.

generalization

forming general propositions from particular cases or clinical signs.