Methods Of Modifying ASD

Question 1

What does PECS stand for?

Answer 1

Picture-Exchange Communication System

Question 2

Aim of PECS

Answer 2

To enable those with ASD to improve functional communication

Question 3

What is PECS based on?

Answer 3

Behaviourist principles, specifically the reinforcement shaping and modeling

Question 4

PECS Protocol

Answer 4

Pre-programme preparation:
-finding out which objects childbis most interested/finds motivation in
-objects used as reinforcers
-picture cards created

Question 5

Describe stage 1 of PECS

Question 6

Describe Step 1 of PECS

Answer 6

Initiating communication:
Involves the communicative partner and the physical prompter. Child is presented with the object they want. As they reach for the item, they’re guided to pick up a photo card, reach toward their partner, and place the card in their hand. This is the picture exchange, and the child is rewarded with the item.

Repetition across different people and settings is crucial, and the physical prompter gradually decreases assistance.

Question 7

Describe Step 2 of PECS

Answer 7

Expanding the use of pictures:

Communicative partner is moved further away. Communication folder is introduced, with laminated pictures attached with velcro.

Child learns to initiate communication in various situations by selecting an appropriate picture card from the folder.

Question 8

Describe Step 3 of PECS

Answer 8

Choosing the message:

Child learns to discriminate between pictures. If they select the incorrect picture, they receive the incorrect item. Over time, they learn to select pictures that correspond with their needs.

Question 9

Describe Step 4 of PECS

Answer 9

Introducing sentence structure:

Sentence strips are introduced (e.g I want…), followed by a picture of the desired item. Trainer encourages child to touch each picture while reading the sentence.

Structure expands to include additional features, like colour, or size.

Question 10

Describe Step 5 of PECS

Answer 10

Answering simple questions:

Child is taught to respond to questions like “what do you want?” by constructing and exchanging sentence strips.

Initially, trainer points to the picture, but this response is delayed over time.

Eventually the child independently constructs the sentence strip to respond to a question.

Question 11

Describe Step 6 of PECS

Answer 11

Teaching commenting:

Child learns to comment on their surroundings with trainer prompts.

Trainer points to a picture and asks “what do you see?”, if the child responds correctly they’re rewarded but not given the item.

Trainer reduces question prompts to encourage spontaneous commenting.

Question 12

When is PECS complete?

Answer 12

When the child is able to request items spontaneously and respond to questions, comment on their environment, and include various features in their communication.

Question 13

What does RDI stand for?

Answer 13

Relationship Development Intervention

Question 14

Who developed RDI and why?

Answer 14

Gutstein and Sheely, to address social difficulties

Question 15

Aim of RDI

Answer 15

Modifies perception of others’ thoughts and feelings by addressing underdeveloped TOM.
Led by caregivers of child with support of consultant.

Question 16

Define dynamic intelligence

Answer 16

The ability to think flexibly and consider events from a different perspective

Question 17

What are the six areas of dynamic intelligence that RDI aims to improve?

Answer 17

1) Emotional referencing
2) Social coordination
3) Declarative language
4) Flexible thinking
5) Relational information processing
6) Foresight and Hindsight thinking

Question 18

Define emotional referencing

Answer 18

Learning from the emotional expressions and reactions of others (improving verbal and non-verbal communication)

Question 19

Define social coordination

Answer 19

Adjusting behaviours based on social cues and interactions

Question 20

Define declarative language

Answer 20

Using communication to share thoughts, ideas, and experiences rather than just requesting

Question 21

Define flexible thinking

Answer 21

Adapting to changes, solving problems, and managing uncertainty

Question 22

Define relational information processing

Answer 22

Understanding context, relationships, and abstract concepts

Question 23

Define foresight and hindsight thinking

Answer 23

Learning from past experiences to predict future outcomes

Question 24

What is the process of RDI for parents?

Answer 24

Undergo training with an RDI consultant to understand ASD-related challenges.

Learn to create an environment that fosters social and emotional growth in everyday interactions.

Implement RDI strategies at home through natural relationship-based activities

Record progress and receive continuous feedback from consultant

Question 25

What is the process of RDI for the child?

Answer 25

Engage in structured interactions with parents that encourage communication, problem-solving, and emotional regulation. Activities focus on developing skills in dynamic intelligence, gradually increasing in complexity Children practice adapting to new situations, understanding perspectives, and forming deeper relationships As progress is made, more independent social interactions with peers and the broader community are introduced.

Question 26

Link RDI to characteristics of ASD

Answer 26

Mainly addresses social/communication deficits in ASD, such as social/emotional reciprocation, difficulty maintaining relationships, and non-verbal communication.

Question 27

What is the biological method of modifying ASD?

Answer 27

Intranasal oxytocin

Question 28

How does intranasal oxytocin relate to treating ASD?

Answer 28

Related to the amygdala dysfunction theory, and attempts to improve the function of the amygdala to improve social behaviours and emotional processing

Question 29

How does intranasal oxytocin work?

Answer 29

Enters the brain and increase oxytocin levels in areas like the limbic system (including amygdala).