What is Pivotal Response Training (PRT)?
One ABA approach is Pivotal Response Training. PRT incorporates principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to teach behaviors that seem to be central to wide areas of functioning. It is expected that by teaching certain “pivotal” behaviors, we will see improvements in other areas of behavior. One pivotal behavior is motivation. A lack of social motivation is hallmark to autism. Children with autism typically lack the motivation to learn new tasks and participate in their social environment.
A. One ABA approach is Pivotal Response Training. PRT incorporates principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to teach behaviors that seem to be central to wide areas of functioning. It is expected that by teaching certain pivotal behaviors, we will see improvements in other areas of behavior. One pivotal behavior is motivation. A lack of social motivation is hallmark to autism. Children with autism typically lack the motivation to learn new tasks and participate in their social environment. A lack of motivation may be observed as temper tantrums, crying, noncompliance, inattention, fidgeting, staring, attempting to leave the teaching situation, or lethargy. PRT targets motivation by getting the child to respond to increasing expectations to communicate and socialize. The interventionist creates opportunities for the child to receive desired items and interactions, and gradually shapes more effective communication, play, and social skills. The use of PRT can increase the motivation
