A Comparison of High and Low-Proficiency Mands During Functional Communication Training Across Multiple Functions of Problem Behavior

Proficiency is a mand-specific variable that has been shown to affect treatment outcomes during functional communication training (FCT; i.e., Ringdahl et al. in Research in Developmental Disabilities, 30, 330-341, 2009). Although Ringdahl et al. Research in Developmental Disabilities, 30, 330-341 (2009) showed mand proficiency was predictive of FCT effectiveness, the study targeted a single function of problem behavior. Thus, questions remain about the extent to which mand proficiency is consistent across mands related to multiple functions of problem behavior during both pre-treatment mand topography assessments and subsequent FCT. We assessed mand proficiency via mand topography assessments with individuals with autism and histories of engagement in multiply maintained problem behavior. The results suggested that mand proficiency pertaining to specific mand topographies varied across functions of problem behavior. Next, we conducted FCT using high and low-proficiency mands across all functions of problem behavior. Idiosyncratic results were observed within and across functions of problem behavior with both participants in terms of the effects of high and low-proficiency mand topographies. Implications are discussed in terms of FCT and the selection of mand topographies to target during FCT.