FCT is based on the idea that challenging behaviors often serve communicative purposes and can be replaced with appropriate alternatives. The process involves identifying what a behavior achieves (e.g., escape, attention) and teaching a more acceptable communication method to fulfill the same need. The new communication form is reinforced while the problematic behavior is no longer rewarded. SLPs collaborate with behavioral teams to implement FCT and teach clients to express their needs more effectively.
Edward G. Carr and V. Mark Durand, “Reducing Behavior Problems Through Functional Communication Training,” Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis 18, no. 2 (1985).
Frank Cicero, “Functional Communication Training (FCT),” Association for Science in Autism Treatment (2015).
