Pivotal Response Training and Autism
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Ranking : 
Type(s) : Behavioural/Developmental
Introduction
Pivotal response training (PRT) is an approach in which certain aspects of a child’s development are considered to be ‘pivotal’ i.e. crucial for the behaviours which depend on them.
The pivotal areas are motivation, self-management, self-initiation, and the ability to respond to multiple environmental cues.
The trainer concentrates on changing these pivotal areas in order to change the behaviours which depend on them, such as speech and language, social behaviour, and challenging behaviour.
The PRT approach has been applied to a number of developmental target skills, including speech, joint attention, and play. Studies have focused on home, nursery and school as settings for PRT-type interventions, often using typically developing peers or parents as trainers.
PRT is sometimes incorporated within other models and approaches. For example it is a key element of the Early Start Denver Model.
Opinion
PRT provides a positive approach to targeting key developmental skills in children with autism. Reports have suggested that parents and non-autistic peers can be trained to implement this approach, and that the focus on naturalistic reinforcement may make it more accessible than more traditionally structured behavioural interventions.
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 ranked them.
Disclaimer
Please read our Disclaimer about this intervention.
Last Updated : 20/02/2012 Back to Top
