Abstract
The present study surveys published research on the establishment of alternative behavior in people with autism with behavior problems, focusing on functional communication training (FCT). In addition, current research related to functional communication training and alternative behavior is evaluated in order to clarify problems in Japan. In the 1980s, interventions based on functional analysis were developed. For 20 years, those interventions became an important element of positive behavior support. In particular, researchers developed functional communication training for the purpose of enabling people with autism to acquire alternative behavior that might alleviate their behavior problems. This was a convenient technique. Additionally, these interventions included positive treatment as part of functional assessment and antecedent control. An issue for the future is the development of inclusive functional communication training to promote desired behavior and environmental adjustments in natural settings for people with autism.
