The process of cognitive development, as described by Jean Piaget, seeks to determine how an organism adapts to its environment. Piaget identified four stages in cognitive development:
1. Sensorimotor (Infancy)
2. Pre-operational (Toddler and Early Childhood)
3. Concrete Operational (Elementary and Early Adolescence)
4. Formal Operational (Adolescence and Adulthood)
Cognitive theorists believe that various schemas assist individuals when adapting to more complex environments throughout the lifespan. Individuals with exceptionalilities, such as individuals with autism who exhibit a range of skills, may find Congnitive Behaivor Management Programs useful when learning how to function independently in schools and communities. Cognitive Behavior Modification (CBM) is used as a self-monitoring strategy which trains individuals on how to monitor their own behavior. This strategy should only be used if the individual possesses the skills necessary to complete specific tasks.
First identify the problem behavior. Next, determine what reinforcers (i.e., social, contingent activities, tangible/edible) can be used to reinforce appropriate behavior. Third, prepare the necessary materials (i.e., timing devices, data collection sheets) in order to implement the CBM strategy. Next, teach the individual how to distinguish between appropriate and inappropriate behaviors. Then, inform the individual of the CBM strategy. Model, practice, self-record and self-reward is the sequence suggested for persons with tranditional autism. Finally, work with the individual to establish self-management independence of the CBM strategy.
References:
Quinn, C. & Swaggart, B. (1994). Implementing cognitive behavior management programs for persons with autism: Guidelines for practitioners. Focus on Autistic Behaivor, 9(4), 1-13.
Please note: the Burkhart Center for Autism Education and Research does not endorse any philosophy over any other. It has been the experience of the Burkhart Center's directors and staff that, at times, a combination of philosophies is more effective than staying with only one philosophy. Please use caution when choosing a personal philosophy that the individual(s) being served, is/are served well by the philosophy.
