Preference for Alternative Communication Modality Based on Reinforcer Quality and Availability.

Area of Science:

• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
• Developmental Disabilities
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
• Intellectual Disability (ID)

Background:

• Growing interest in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems for individuals with developmental disabilities.
• Previous research often treated AAC preference as static and influenced by non-functional features (e.g., aesthetics, modality position).
• Need for preference assessments sensitive to functional variables (e.g., reinforcer effectiveness).

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess AAC modality preference in a teenager with autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability.
• To differentiate preference control by functional versus non-functional variables.
• To extend prior research by incorporating a control condition and reinforcer manipulation.

Main Methods:

• Concurrent-chains procedure to assess AAC modality preference.
• Inclusion of a control condition to validate preference assessment.
• Manipulation of reinforcer availability to test functional control.

Main Results:

• Participant preference was functionally related to reinforcer availability, even with rapid modality alternations.
• Preference was demonstrated to be sensitive to functional variables (reinforcer availability).
• Participant consistently avoided the control condition, supporting the validity of the assessment.

Conclusions:

• AAC preference in individuals with ASD and ID can be reliably assessed and is primarily controlled by functional variables.
• Findings highlight the importance of considering reinforcer effectiveness in AAC system selection.
• Implications for enhancing self-determination and guiding future AAC research.