Document Type

Article

Publication Date

7-25-2025

Identifier

DOI: 10.3390/bs15081014

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of teaching multiple alternative responses on the resurgence of a target response and the persistence of an alternative response in an applied setting. Using a between-participants design, we examined how teaching multiple alternative responses impacted resurgence and persistence upon exposure to extinction. Additionally, we investigated the role of preference in response allocation and shifts in participant preference following extinction. Results indicated resurgence across both conditions, with no consistent difference in severity between single and multiple alternative response conditions. However, within-session analyses revealed greater persistence of the alternative response for participants taught multiple alternative responses, suggesting potential benefits for sustained engagement. Future researchers should continue to investigate the role of preference, as teaching order may have impacted findings. Despite mixed findings, this study provides valuable insights into clinical strategies for promoting alternative responding. While teaching multiple alternative responses may not prevent resurgence, it may enhance communication flexibility, particularly when certain responses become unavailable.

Journal Title

Behav Sci (Basel)

Volume

15

Issue

8

PubMed ID

40867371

Keywords

autism; communication preference; functional communication training; resurgence; treatment durability

Comments

Grants and funding

This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).

Publisher's Link: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-328X/15/8/1014

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