An evaluation of generalization strategies used with functional communication training.

Abstract

Research has shown that functional communication training (FCT) is effective for reducing problem behavior and multiple schedules can facilitate reinforcer schedule thinning during FCT. Most studies that have used multiple schedules with FCT have included contrived stimuli (e.g., colored cards) as the discriminative stimuli (Sᴰs), but recently, researchers have evaluated similar multiple-schedule training procedures with naturally occurring Sᴰs (e.g., activities or items that signal reinforcement in the natural environment). The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the effect of discrimination training and fading from contrived to natural stimuli on a child’s ability to generalize FCT to untrained natural stimuli.