The Effects of Individualized Positive Behavior Support Using Picture Exchange Communication System on Out of Seat and Requesting Behavior of Elementary School Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder

ABSTRACT

This study examined the effects of individualized Positive Behavior Support(PBS) using the Picture Exchange Communication System(PECS) on out of seat and requesting behaviors in three elementary school students with autism spectrum disorder(ASD). The participants were students with ASD enrolled in a special education elementary school. The independent variables were individualized PBS while the dependent variables were out of seat behavior and requesting behavior. The study design was a multiple baseline design across subjects. A functional behavior assessment and preference assessment were conducted prior to intervention followed by baseline, intervention, and maintenance phase. The results of this study demonstrated that individualized PBS using PECS was an effective intervention for elementary school students with ASD. The individualized PBS interventions reduced out of seat behavior and increased requesting behavior and maintained the intervention effects for elementary school students with ASD.