Functional Communication Training (FCT)

Teaching an appropriate communication skill to replace a challenging behaviour that serves the same purpose.

Functional Communication Training is a specific type of Differential Reinforcement (DRA). You assess the function of a problem behaviour - like escaping a task - and teach a socially acceptable way to communicate that exact same need, like handing over a break card.

FCT is one of the most widely used interventions in behaviour analysis. It respects the learner's underlying need while replacing the dangerous or disruptive topography with functional language.