December 14, 2007, Newsletter Issue #69: Compliance

Tip of the Week


Compliance in the home environment is an issue that many families with an autistic member face. Non-compliant behavior can be very challenging and it may escalate into negative behavior and tantrums. There are some strategies that encourage compliant behavior.
A child may not follow through with directions simply because he has not processed the command. If a directive has too many words and is complicated the individual with autism is unable to process the information. He is unable to follow a direction that he has not processed.A spoken directive should contain as few words as possible. This will make processing the command much easier for the autistic individual. Using concise directions may feel a little strange or even rude at first but they are quite kind to the person with autism.Visual aids are extremely helpful in gaining compliant behavior. Using PECS as a means of giving directions is a great way to make the command visual. Gestures and sign language can be effective as well.The compliant behavior will most likely be repeated if it is rewarded. Using praise, treats or a preferred activity to reinforce the compliant behavior is a wonderful approach to encourage future compliance when the command is given again.

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