The effect of conjoint behavioral consultation on achieving communication skills in children with autism spectrum disorder

• Published in: International journal of developmental neuroscience 2024-11, Vol.84 (7), p.704-719
• Main Authors: Aykut, Pelin, Kahveci, Gul
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: autism spectrum disorder; Autism Spectrum Disorder - psychology; Autism Spectrum Disorder - rehabilitation; Behavior Therapy - methods; Child; Child, Preschool; Communication; conjoint behavioral consultation; Female; Humans; Male; mand‐modeling; Pilot Projects; tact
• ISSN: 0736-5748; 1873-474X; 1873-474X
• DOI: 10.1002/jdn.10368

This study, uniquely designed with tact and mand‐modeling procedures presented through the Conjoint Behavioral Consultation (CBC) method, aims to evaluate the effects on the communication skills of preschool children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and the impact on disruptive behaviors (tantrums) at home. A pilot study with the families of three participants informed the adaptations for the main study, which was implemented with the families of nine participants. The research was conducted using an Embedded Mixed Methods Design, a distinctive approach that allowed for a comprehensive understanding of the outcomes. The primary research design was a single‐subject research model with multiple probes across participants' designs, ensuring a thorough and individualized assessment. The study was carried out in both home and clinical settings, involving the participation of special education teachers and families. The findings indicate that the tact and mand‐modeling procedures presented through the CBC method significantly improved the children's communication skills and led to substantial reductions in tantrum behaviors. All families indicated that the dependent variables held significant social importance. Significant enhancements were noted in the children's communication skills and social engagements after the intervention. The CBC intervention was determined to be feasible and feasible for families, with no additional expenses accrued. The long‐term suitability and usefulness of the product in many environments increased its societal acceptance. This study revealed that the CBC approach had a favorable and reliable effect on academic and behavioral advancement. This uniquely designed study, using tact and mand‐modeling procedures delivered through Conjoint Behavioral Counseling (CBC), evaluated the effects on communication skills and disruptive behaviors (tantrums) at home in preschool children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The study was conducted in both home and clinical settings, with the participation of special education teachers and families. The findings indicate that tact and mand‐modeling procedures delivered through CBC significantly improved children's communication skills and resulted in significant reductions in tantrum behaviors.