Purpose: To evaluate parent use of functional communication training (FCT) to replace and enhance prelinguistic behaviours in six young children with developmental and physical disabilities. Method: Initially, the communicative functions of the children's prelinguistic behaviours were assessed by parent interviews. Three communication functions were identified for each child and intervention goals to replace or enhance the child's existing prelinguistic behaviours were developed in consultation with parents. After a baseline phase, parents received training on implementation of FCT. Intervention was staggered across the three communicative functions in a multiple-probe design. Results: Intervention was associated with increases in the replacement communication behaviour. Treatment gains were generally maintained at the monthly follow-ups. Conclusion: The results suggest that parents can use FCT to enhance communication skills in children with developmental and physical disabilities. © 2004 Taylor & Francis Ltd.

Item Type:	Refereed Article
Research Division:	Education
Research Group:	Specialist studies in education
Research Field:	Special education and disability
Objective Division:	Education and Training
Objective Group:	Schools and learning environments
Objective Field:	Inclusive education
UTAS Author:	Sigafoos, J (Professor Jeffrey Sigafoos)
ID Code:	36330
Year Published:	2004
Web of Science® Times Cited:	25
Deposited By:	Education
Deposited On:	2007-12-18
Last Modified:	2011-10-03
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