A Practitioner Guide for Schedule Thinning Following Functional Communication Training

Abstract

Schedule thinning following functional communication training is an important element of behavior analytic interventions targeting the reduction of challenging behavior. We systematically searched the literature for all applications of schedule thinning following functional communication training and identified three primary thinning techniques. These schedule thinning techniques include multiple schedules, chained schedules, and delay-to-reinforcement. We further analyzed the highly effective applications, meaning only those with a 90% reduction in challenging behavior, for specific procedural details. Across multiple schedules, chained schedules, and delay-to-reinforcement, there are a variety of procedures and modifications which can be difficult to navigate. Thus, we developed a decision-making guide for selecting a schedule thinning technique and a separate guide for each of the three techniques. Each individual guide includes procedural information such as reinforcement intervals, thinning criteria, and terminal schedules. We believe that this guide will aid practitioners in effectively implementing schedule thinning with their clients.