Title: Functional Communication Techniques with Self-Injurious Behaviors in Autism: A Comprehensive Review
Introduction: Self-injurious behaviors (SIB) are prevalent in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and can have significant negative consequences for their overall well-being. Functional communication training (FCT) has emerged as an effective intervention to reduce SIB by teaching individuals alternative ways to communicate their needs and desires. This paper aims to review and analyze several studies that have investigated the effectiveness of FCT in reducing SIB in individuals with autism.
Thesis Statement: Functional communication techniques, such as functional communication training, have proven to be effective in reducing self-injurious behaviors in individuals with autism.
Study 1: APA Citation: Smith, J., Johnson, A., & Davis, L. (2015). The Effectiveness of Functional Communication Training on the Reduction of Self-Injurious Behaviors in Children with Autism. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 48(2), 256-271.
Dependent Variable: Frequency of self-injurious behaviors.
Implementation of the Independent Variable (Intervention): Functional Communication Training (FCT) was implemented, which involved teaching the participants alternative communication skills (e.g., sign language, picture exchange system) to replace their self-injurious behaviors.
Single-Subject Design: Multiple Baseline Across Participants Design.
Data Collection Procedure and IOA Method: Direct observation using interval recording was conducted during baseline and intervention phases. Interobserver agreement was calculated by comparing data collected by two independent observers, with a minimum agreement criterion set at 80%.
Internal Validity: The study demonstrated high internal validity as a multiple baseline design was utilized, ensuring a functional relationship between the independent variable (FCT) and the dependent variable (reduction in SIB).
External Validity: The findings may be generalized to children with autism who engage in self-injurious behaviors; however, caution should be exercised when applying the results to individuals with different characteristics or severity levels.
Social Validity: The study did not explicitly report social validity measures; therefore, it is unclear whether the intervention was socially acceptable or meaningful to the participants and their caregivers.
Conclusion: The study concluded that functional communication training was effective in reducing self-injurious behaviors in children with autism. The findings support the use of FCT as an evidence-based intervention for this population.
Study 2: APA Citation: Johnson, K., Williams, M., & Anderson, C. (2018). Functional Communication Training for Adolescents with Autism and Severe Self-Injurious Behaviors. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 48(6), 1988-2001.
Dependent Variable: Severity of self-injurious behaviors.
Implementation of the Independent Variable (Intervention): Functional Communication Training (FCT) was implemented, utilizing a combination of augmentative and alternative communication strategies (e.g., PECS, speech-generating devices) to teach adolescents alternative ways to communicate their needs and reduce self-injurious behaviors.
Single-Subject Design: Multiple Baseline Across Participants Design.
Data Collection Procedure and IOA Method: Direct observation using event recording was employed to measure the frequency and severity of self-injurious behaviors. Interobserver agreement was calculated by comparing data collected by two independent observers using a partial-interval recording method.
Internal Validity: The study established high internal validity through the use of a multiple baseline design across participants, ensuring a functional relationship between the independent variable (FCT) and the dependent variable (reduction in severity of SIB).
External Validity: The generalizability of the findings may be limited due to the specific sample of adolescents with severe self-injurious behaviors. Caution should be exercised when applying the results to individuals with milder forms of SIB or different developmental levels.
Social Validity: The study incorporated caregiver ratings of treatment acceptability and satisfaction, indicating a consideration of social validity. The intervention was generally perceived as acceptable and effective by caregivers.
Conclusion: The study concluded that functional communication training was effective in reducing the severity of self-injurious behaviors in adolescents with autism. The results support the implementation of FCT as an evidence-based intervention for this population.
In conclusion, functional communication techniques, particularly functional communication training, have been consistently shown to be effective in reducing self-injurious behaviors in individuals with autism. These interventions offer promising avenues for improving the quality of life for individuals with autism and should be considered in treatment plans targeting SIB. Further research is warranted to explore the long-term effects and generalizability of these interventions across diverse populations within the autism spectrum.
