What is FCT?

Functional Communication Training (FCT) is teaching a specific communication behavior to replace a problem behavior.

The new "word" must have the SAME FUNCTION as the problem behavior.

Examples

- Child Hits (Function: Escape) -> Teach "Break Please."
- Child Screams (Function: Tangible) -> Teach "Cookie Please."
- Child Spits (Function: Attention) -> Teach "Look at me."

RBT Practice Exam Scenario

Question: "Instead of banging his head, the child learns to hand the RBT a picture of a pretzel. What is this?"
Answer: FCT (Manding).

Frequently Asked Questions About FCT

Does FCT require speech?

No! You can use PECS (Pictures), Signs (ASL), or AAC devices. It just has to be functional communication.

Why is it safer?

It gives the child a voice. Most problem behavior is just "bad communication."