The Autism Society Event and Education Recordings Archive

One of the greatest challenges schools, parents, and agencies face is addressing the challenging behavior concerns of individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). This presentation will provide attendees with an easy-to-use, yet comprehensive tool to plan and implement effective behavior intervention programs for individuals with ASD. A variety of research supported interventions will also be discussed. These interventions address the complex needs of individuals with ASD in the academic, behavior, social/emotional, and sensory areas. One of the greatest challenges schools, parents, and agencies face is addressing the behavior concerns of individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Parents and professionals often feel confused because tried and true behavior techniques do not work. Problems arise when single interventions are implemented to address complex needs. Even evidence-based interventions tend to fail if the stage is not properly set through the use of multiple interventions targeted specifically for an individual. This presentation will provide attendees with an easy-to-use, yet comprehensive tool to plan and implement effective behavior intervention programs for individuals with ASD of all ages. The presentation will begin with a brief discussion of the characteristics of ASD and emphasize the importance of identifying and addressing underlying needs that result in social, emotional, and behavioral concerns. Presenters will then discuss the process of planning comprehensive behavior interventions known as the Ziggurat Model. The Ziggurat contains five-levels in a hierarchal structure that must be included in a comprehensive intervention plan. These areas are: Sensory Differences and Biological Needs; Reinforcement; Structure and Visual Supports, Task Demands, and Skills to Teach. The presentation will outline evidenced-based interventions on each of the five levels of the Ziggurat. Additionally, presenters will discuss assessment of behavior challenges including a tool that builds on a traditional functional behavioral assessment. Case scenarios demonstrating the intervention design process and research based strategies will be included.

The Ziggurat Model is a valuable resource for public school professionals who must remain in compliance with federal and state guidelines. Specifically, recent trends in special education law emphasize the use of scientifically based research approaches along with a focus on Response to Intervention (RTI). Additionally, there is a strong push for incorporating positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) based on a functional behavioral assessment. The Ziggurat Model is consistent with these practices.

The Ziggurat Model emphasizes a proactive, positive approach by requiring reinforcement and antecedent-based interventions. Ongoing assessment allows for changes to the intervention plan at each level gauged on progress. Finally, the Ziggurat Model promotes collaboration and communication among parents and professionals. The assessment tools are designed to incorporate the perspectives of multiple team members while assuring that they work from the same reference point—the individual's underlying characteristics of autism. A worksheet that promotes collaboration by helping parents and professionals to understand their part in the larger intervention picture will be presented. Through the use of the Ziggurat Model, the whole truly is greater than the sum of its parts.

Participants will be able to:

• Identify the relationship of underlying characteristics of HFA/AS with observable behavior • List five areas required for a comprehensive intervention • Describe research validated strategies for intervention

Learning Objectives: