INCREASING PEER-TO-PEER VOCAL MANDS IN YOUNG CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of least-to-most prompting strategies to increase peer-to-peer vocal mands. Three preschool-aged children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) participated in this study, which focused on increasing mands towards same age peers with ASD. Highly preferred tangibles were delivered from the peers to the target participants, contingent on a correct independent or prompted mand. Generalization was programmed within the study as peers were alternated and sessions were conducted both in a separate, discrete trial room and within the natural classroom setting. Results of the study suggest that the teaching package with least-to-most prompting increased peer-to-peer mands for the three target participants.