Teaching children with autism to engage in peer-directed mands using a picture exchange communication system

Amber R. Paden, Tiffany Kodak, Wayne W. Fisher, Elizabeth M. Gawley-Bullington, Kelly J. Bouxsein

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

13 Scopus citations

Abstract

We evaluated differential reinforcement of alternative behavior (DRA) plus prompting to increase peer-directed mands for preferred items using a picture exchange communication system (PECS). Two nonvocal individuals with autism participated. Independent mands with a peer increased with the implementation of DRA plus prompting for both participants. In addition, peers engaged in brief social interactions following the majority of mands for leisure items. These results suggest that teaching children to use PECS with peers may be one way to increase manding and social interactions in individuals with limited or no vocal repertoire.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)425-429
Number of pages5
JournalJournal of applied behavior analysis
Volume45
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2012

Keywords

  • Autism, differential
  • Mand
  • Picture exchange communication system
  • Reinforcement of alternative behavior
  • Social interactions

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Philosophy
  • Applied Psychology
  • Sociology and Political Science

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