Twelfth Annual Grant Winners 2011-2012

Title: Evaluation of a novel procedure to increase compliance in young children with ASD

Dean:
Roni Leiderman, PhD (MSI)
Karen Grosby, MEd (CPS)

Faculty and Students:
Charles Mace, PhD (MSI)
Tara Sheehan, MS (MSI)
Heather O'Brien, MS (MSI)
Yulema Cruz, MS (MSI)

Abstract:

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often have difficulty complying with simple instructions. Compliance with instructions is fundamental for maintaining children's safety as well as success in school environments. The present study aims to teach six children with Autism Spectrum Disorder ages 18 months through 36 months enrolled in the MSC Starting Right Program how to comply with key instructions using a compliance training method developed by the principal investigator. After compliance is established with the experimenters, parents will be taught to use similar procedures to establish the generality of compliance. The effectiveness of the procedure will be evaluated using single subject research methodology.