Challenging behaviour is communication
Behind every behaviour is a message— the individual has not yet learned to communicate clearly
When an individual does not yet have a reliable way to express their wants and needs, behaviours such as crying, hitting, throwing objects, or refusing tasks may become the most effective way they know to communicate. Whether the goal is to gain attention, request a break, seek help, access a preferred item, or avoid an uncomfortable situation, behaviour may serve as the individual’s primary means of expressing that need.
Understanding behaviour as communication shifts the focus from simply reducing challenging behaviours to teaching more appropriate and effective ways for individuals to express their needs.
Functional Communication Training, commonly known as FCT, offers a structured and supportive way to change this behaviour pattern. FCT is a differential reinforcement procedure in which appropriate communication responses are reinforced, while challenging behaviour is no longer reinforced. Through this process, the individual learns to use a more appropriate alternative communication response that serves the same function as the challenging behaviour.
Therefore, FCT is not limited to reducing challenging behaviour; it also involves teaching individuals a more appropriate communication response that serves the same function. This response may include words, gestures, signs, pictures, or another alternative communication method that is meaningful and accessible to the individual.
FCT is a well-researched intervention with strong evidence supporting its effectiveness in reducing behaviours of concern. Since, the publication of Carr and Durand (1985), FCT has become the most studied and published function-based treatment for behaviors of concern. Tiger et al. (2008) conducted a research review and developed a practical guide which recommending that, when choosing the Functional Communication Response (FCR), it is important to consider response effort, social recognition from others and the speed of skill development. Tiger et al. (2008) further stated that a socially acceptable communicative response can be strengthened by reassigning the reinforcers maintaining the behaviors of concern to the desired communication response, allowing access to the same reinforcers.
How FCT Reduces Challenging Behaviour
FCT works by identifying the function of the behaviour and then teaching a communication response that leads to the same outcome in a more positive way. For example, a person who throws materials to escape a difficult task may be taught to ask for a break. Someone who grabs an item may be taught to request it using a word, picture, or gesture. Over time, the new communication response is reinforced consistently, while the challenging behaviour no longer produces the same result. This approach helps reduce frustration because the individual learns that communication can be effective, predictable, and respected. When implemented consistently across people and settings, FCT not only decreases challenging behaviour but also strengthens the individual’s independence, confidence, and social connection.
Effective implementation of FCT involves:
- Conducting a functional behaviour assessment to identify the purpose of the behaviour
- Selecting a communication response that is appropriate and accessible for the individual
- Consistently reinforcing the new communication skill
- Using the intervention across different settings and communication partners
Main Takeaway
FCT is an evidence-based approach that reduces challenging behaviour by teaching individuals a more appropriate and effective way to communicate their needs and access reinforcement.
By – Cynthia Zakariasen, Support Approach Team
