Date of Defense
4-22-2026
Date of Graduation
5-2026
Department
Psychology
First Advisor
Stephanie Peterson
Second Advisor
Silvia Robazza
Third Advisor
Sara Rockwell
Abstract
Communication is an essential skill in the prevention of challenging behaviors for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) (Ala’i-Rosales et al., 2019). Selecting the modality of communication for individuals who are non-vocal verbal can create an additional challenge when teaching functional communication. While previous research has focused primarily on assessing preference for communication modalities during Functional Communication Training (FCT), few studies have assessed preference when manding for wants and needs rather than a specific Functional Communication Response (FCR). The present study aims to assess the communication modality preference of a young, non-vocal verbal child with ASD. Utilizing a randomized AB design between picture exchange (PE) and a speech generating device (SGD), researchers taught and assessed preference between the two different communication modalities. Results indicated the participant did not develop a clear preference for one communication modality over the other.
Recommended Citation
Sloan, Kendall, "Assessing the Communication Modality Preference of a Young Child with Autism" (2026). Honors Theses. 4096.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/honors_theses/4096
Access Setting
Honors Thesis-Restricted
Restricted to Campus until
12-24-2026