Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 23, 2025
A Computerized Functional Skills Assessment and Training Program Targeting Technology Based Everyday Functional Skills
Published on: February 13, 2020
A Randomized Controlled Trial of Functional Communication Training via Telehealth for Young Children with Autism
Scott Lindgren1, David Wacker2, Kelly Schieltz2
1Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa College of Medicine, 100 Hawkins Drive, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA. scott-lindgren@uiowa.edu.
Insights
Functional communication training (FCT) delivered via telehealth significantly reduced problem behaviors in young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Parents successfully implemented FCT, leading to improved social communication and task completion.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Problem behaviors significantly impact learning and social interaction for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
- Existing interventions for ASD-related behavioral challenges vary in effectiveness.
- Parental involvement is crucial for effective behavioral interventions in children with ASD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness of parent-implemented functional communication training (FCT) delivered via telehealth versus "treatment as usual" for young children with ASD.
- To assess the impact of FCT on problem behaviors, social communication, and task completion in children with ASD.
- To evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of telehealth-based behavioral consultation for parents.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 38 young children (ages 21-84 months) diagnosed with ASD.
- Intervention group received parent-implemented FCT with real-time coaching from behavioral consultants via telehealth.
- Control group received "treatment as usual" over a 12-week period.
Main Results:
- Parent-implemented FCT via telehealth resulted in a 98% mean reduction in problem behaviors.
- Children receiving FCT showed significant improvements in social communication and task completion.
- Children in the "treatment as usual" group exhibited limited behavioral improvement.
Conclusions:
- Parent-implemented FCT utilizing telehealth is a highly effective intervention for reducing problem behaviors in young children with ASD.
- Telehealth delivery of FCT empowers parents and offers a scalable solution for behavioral support.
- FCT via telehealth demonstrates superior outcomes compared to standard care for children with moderate to severe behavioral challenges.
Abstract:
Many children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have problem behaviors that interfere with learning and social interaction. This randomized controlled trial compared treatment with functional communication training (FCT) to "treatment as usual" for young children with ASD (n = 38, ages 21-84 months). FCT was conducted by parents with training and real-time coaching provided by behavioral consultants using telehealth. FCT treatment via telehealth achieved a mean reduction in problem behavior of 98% compared to limited behavioral improvement in children receiving "treatment as usual" during a 12-week period. Social communication and task completion also improved. For children with ASD and moderate to severe behavior problems, parent-implemented FCT using telehealth significantly reduced problem behavior while ongoing interventions typically did not.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
01:26Modeling in Therapy
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in...
01:30Therapeutic Communication
Verbal communication depends on language or a prescribed way of using words so that people can share information effectively. The critical aspects of verbal...