Action Bridge: Strategies for Selecting Replacement Responses FCT

Functional Communication Training (FCT) is the most thoroughly researched intervention for reducing severe problem behavior in individuals with developmental disabilities. However, clinicians often rely on personal familiarity, agency routine, or informal preference when selecting communication modalities (e.g., picture cards vs. switches vs. speech-generating devices).

In this Action Bridge, Dr. Joel Ringdahl presents an empirical, data-based framework for communication modality selection. Moving beyond opinion, participants will explore how response effort (efficiency), baseline prompt proficiency, and learner choice (preference) directly dictate treatment acquisition speed and overall reduction in problem behavior.

Furthermore, the Action Bridge examines behavioral momentum and treatment persistence, demonstrating how learner preference creates resilient interventions that maintain during delays or temporary interruptions in reinforcement. Practical assessment demonstrations and ethical considerations for interprofessional collaboration with Speech-Language Pathologists are included.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion, you will be able to:

• Describe the role of functional analysis and matching consequences in FCT design.

• Evaluate response effort and prompt proficiency to optimize initial communication acquisition.

• Conduct choice assessments to identify preferred modalities that promote treatment persistence.

• Apply ethical guidelines regarding scope of competence and interprofessional collaboration with SLPs.

Who is this for?

This Action Bridge is designed for BCBAs, BCaBAs, and SLP-BCBAs who conduct functional assessments, design FCT interventions, or serve individuals with severe challenging behavior.

This Action Bridge has been approved for 2.0 Learning CEUs by Bridgify LLC, ACE Provider #OP-25-11914, authorized by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB®). The CEU requirements are detailed in the Action Bridge - CEU Content & Disclosures modules.