부산대학교 도서관

The purpose in this study was to implement functional communication training (FCT) in order to reduce tantrum and aggressive behaviours in a single child with autism spectrum disorder. Could one teach a child to communicate or request things and what would this do to their level of inappropriate behaviors? This investigation attempted to examine the efficacy of this procedure with a child diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. The study was conducted in the child's home as well as in the Behavioural Assessment Lab at a local private university. The behaviors measured were the percentage of tantrum and aggressive behaviours and the number of mands (client requests). A functional analysis of aberrant behavior was conducted following which an ABABCDEFG reversal design was used to evaluate the outcomes of treatment evaluation. The functional analysis indicated that the participant's aberrant behaviours were maintained by tangible reinforcers. Therefore, our participant received something for his tantrums and aggression. Our results showed a reduction in the percentage of tantrum and aggressive behaviours, as well as an increase in participant requests via FCT. These requests can include verbal as well as non-verbal requests such as using a Picture Exchange Communication System or pointing to an object. The implementation of a delay in the FCT treatment package also revealed that with an increased time delay of reinforcement, increased levels of mands as well as decreased levels of aberrant behaviours were kept at a low level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]