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Functional Communication Training for Multiple Reinforcers: an Evaluation of Isolated Control Following a Synthesized
Megan A Boyle1, Shannie M Stamper1, Elizabeth A Donaldson1
11Department of Counseling, Leadership, and Special Education, Missouri State University, Springfield, MO 65897 USA.
Behavior Analysis in Practice
|January 25, 2020
Summary
This study shows that teaching two different communication methods simultaneously effectively reduces problem behaviors and increases appropriate communication. This functional communication training (FCT) approach is beneficial for children with behavioral challenges.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Psychology
- Applied Behavior Analysis
Background:
- Functional analysis identifies the reasons for problem behavior.
- Synthesized contingencies combine multiple reinforcement schedules.
- Teaching communication is a key intervention for behavior reduction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy of teaching two dissimilar communication responses concurrently.
- To evaluate the impact of functional communication training (FCT) with synthesized contingencies.
- To examine stimulus control over learned communication responses.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a functional analysis to identify reinforcement variables.
- Implemented functional communication training (FCT) with a synthesized contingency.
- Used stimulus-control probes to isolate contingency effects.
- Trained two functionally and topographically distinct communication responses.
Main Results:
- The child acquired both targeted communicative responses.
- Problem behavior decreased significantly during FCT.
- Learned communication responses were demonstrated during stimulus-control probes.
- The synthesized contingency effectively established communication.
Conclusions:
- Teaching multiple communication responses simultaneously is effective.
- FCT with synthesized contingencies can be a viable intervention strategy.
- Stimulus-control probes confirm response differentiation.
- Findings have implications for clinical practice and future research in ABA.
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