Date of Last Revision
2023-05-02 23:41:28
Major
Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts
Date of Expected Graduation
Spring 2017
Abstract
Individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder have complex communication needs, and many use challenging behaviors to express themselves. This study focused on the effectiveness of the three-step Functional Communication Training process to decrease self-injurious behaviors, when used with a child with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. After conducting an extensive review of existing studies, the current project focused on areas of weakness in the literature. One case study subject participated in therapy that utilized Functional Communication Training. The participant was taught to functionally communicate via a speech generating device and picture symbols, while the numbers of self-injurious behaviors were recorded. At the end of therapy, this training was effectively shown to increase the usage of functional communication, while simultaneously decreasing the participant’s self-injurious behaviors.
Research Sponsor
Dr. Charles Carlin, PhD, CCC-SLP
First Reader
Mrs. Katie Boarman, MA, CCC-SLP
Second Reader
Mrs. Andrea Brewer, MA, CCC-SLP
Recommended Citation
Connolly, Elizabeth M., "A Guide to Functional Communication Training and Autism" (2017). Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects. 500.
https://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/honors_research_projects/500