Effects of a Complex Behavioral Program on Adaptive and Autistic Behavior for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

• In Event: Poster Session 4
  In Poster Session: Poster Fair A: Examining Student Outcomes

Abstract

We evaluated the impact of a complex applied behavior analysis based program, (the Competent Learner Model), in a school that serves children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. We measured adaptive and autistic behavior at two times using the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, the Gilliam Autism Rating Scale, and the Preschool Language Scale. Dependent t- tests indicated statistically significant improvement in students’ adaptive behavior in the personal, school community, interpersonal, play and leisure, coping, socialization, auditory comprehension, and expressive language domains and improvements in the ratings of their autistic behavior. The results suggest that the Competent Learner Model may be considered for implementation in other school settings serving this population.

Authors

• Dana Cihelkova, West Virginia University

• Daniel Hursh, West Virginia University

• Reagan Curtis, West Virginia University