Script Fading to Teach an Adult with Autism to Memorize Dramatic Scripts

Area of Science:

• Behavior analysis
• Autism spectrum disorder research
• Applied behavior analysis

Background:

• Script memorization is crucial for participation in recreational activities like theater.
• Previous research on script fading procedure (SFP) has not focused on leisure skills or adult populations.
• An adult with autism exhibited a skill deficit in memorizing scripts for her preferred recreational activity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of the script fading procedure (SFP) for teaching script memorization to an adult with autism.
• To determine if SFP could facilitate participation in a self-chosen recreational activity.
• To investigate the application of a behavior analytic approach to leisure skills in adults with autism.

Main Methods:

• A multiple-baseline-across-behaviors (scripts) design was employed.
• Three scripts were taught using the SFP, with systematic fading of physical scripts.
• Generalization and maintenance of script recall were assessed post-intervention.

Main Results:

• The participant achieved nearly 100% accuracy in reciting scripts throughout all phases of the SFP.
• The script fading procedure was effective in teaching line memorization.
• The participant successfully generalized and maintained the learned skill.

Conclusions:

• The script fading procedure (SFP) is an effective intervention for teaching script memorization in adults with autism.
• This study highlights the utility of behavior analytic interventions for promoting leisure skill acquisition.
• The SFP facilitated the participant's engagement in a preferred performing arts activity.