The Importance of Functional Communication Training for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Other Developmental Disabilities
Abstract
The aim of this review is to present the results from a source analysis pertaining to the establishment of functional communication training (FCT) for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as well as those with other developmental disabilities. Similar to those with other types of cognitive disabilities, individuals with ASD often have varying degrees of deficitis in communicative skills, leading, in many cases, to the development of challenging behavior.
FCT is an empirically supported, widely used, and highly effective way of addressing challenging behaviors. Through FCT undesirable behaviors are replaced with a socially acceptable form of communication.
This study highlights the importance of FCT in the of education of individuals with ASD as wel as those with other types of developmental disabilities, not only in terms related to the establishment of appropriate communication skills, but also its effect on the reduction of challenging behavior. Additionally, this study draws attention to the need to advance the competencies for the establishment and management of FCT for special educators and other similar professionals to reduce their dependence on behavioral specialists in situations where resources are limited.