Pivotal Response Treatment for Autism: A Guide for Support Providers

First described in 1943, autism was officially categorized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders in 1980. Today, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 1 in 36 children in the U.S. have autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Rather than the repetitive, drill-type exercises characteristic of the long-favored applied behavior analysis (ABA), pivotal response treatment (PRT) is a researcher- and patient-endorsed approach that integrates motivational elements into interventions to achieve greater engagement and higher learner affect and more rapid gains with lasting outcomes. Using numerous case examples, this book details practical therapeutic steps for supporting patients in areas such as forming first words and word combinations, meaningfully engaging in academics, developing fulfilling social relationships, and enhancing social communication skills.Pivotal Response Treatment for Autism emphasizes focusing on an individual's strengths and engaging parents as active participants in implementing PRT. Regardless of their familiarity with ASD, readers will find actionable strategies in this guide to support their patients and collaborate effectively with families and other providers. Read more