Functional Communication Training and Autism
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Ranking : 
Type(s) : Alternative and Augmentative Communication, Behavioural/Developmental
Introduction
Functional communication training is based on the idea that problem behaviours – such as self harm, hitting other people or throwing tantrums – may be a form of communication.
It aims to teach people with autism to use other forms of communication as substitutes for the ‘messages’ underlying the challenging behaviours.
It requires a thorough assessment to identify the function (or “message”) of each challenging behaviour, followed by instruction on how to communicate that message in a more acceptable form.
For example, if the child throws a tantrum as a way to get out of doing some difficult task, then the instructor might teach the child to ask for a break by speaking, pointing, or gesturing when a task becomes challenging.
Opinion
We are currently reviewing the literature on the use of functional communication training for people with autism.
So far we have identified more than 30 studies published in peer-reviewed journals on this issue.
If you are aware of further research, or you would like to share your personal experiences of functional communication training please email info@researchautism.net Thank you.
Further information
Please see the Advanced version of this page for more information about this intervention, including relevant research studies and details of how we will rank them.
Disclaimer
Please read our Disclaimer about this intervention.
Last Updated : 20/02/2012 Back to Top
