A functional communication training for developing verbal behavior and treatment of challenging behavior in individuals with autism spectrum disorders

Abstract

Communication problems are one of the symptoms of autism spectrum disorders.  Challenging behaviors may be a form of communication with the environment, and when other forms of communication are not available, they may be the only way to meet their needs. The purpose of this article is to demonstrate the potential use of functional communication training in reducing problem behaviors of individuals with ASD, as well as developing acceptable ways of communication. In a research process based on behavior analysis, the method of single-subject experiment with multiple-baseline  design was used.  The results of the study show that the research participants developed communication skills on the basic level, and the frequency of their challenging behaviors has significantly decreased.