Abstract
Functional communication training (FCT) is rooted in the theory that if people with developmental disabilities (DD) have a socially appropriate way (i.e., communication) to get their needs or wants met, they will no longer need to resort to problem behavior. This review will examine the history of the link between problem behavior and communication impairment in individuals with DD as well as recent advances in research on FCT and directions for future research. Teaching people with DD a functional communication response (FCR) leads to a decrease in problem behaviors, provided that the FCR is at least as efficient as the problem behavior. Recent findings suggest ways to mitigate the resurgence of problem behavior as well as the importance of teaching an FCR that is acceptable to caretakers and addressing cognitive obstacles that may interfere with caretakers’ ability to carry out FCT. Through programming for maintenance and generalization of the FCR as well as addressing the needs of caretakers when teaching them to implement and sustain FCT, we can improve outcomes for individuals with DD.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
