pivotal response training
A naturalistic behavioral intervention that targets pivotal behaviors to produce widespread positive changes across multiple developmental areas.
Full Definition
Pivotal Response Training (PRT) is a naturalistic behavioral intervention approach that focuses on pivotal areas of a child's development that are central to wide areas of functioning. Rather than targeting individual behaviors in isolation, PRT addresses pivotal behaviors such as motivation, responsivity to multiple cues, self-management, and social initiations that, when improved, lead to collateral improvements in other areas. The intervention is implemented in natural environments using child-preferred activities and emphasizes child choice, natural reinforcement, and shared control between the child and interventionist. PRT has strong empirical support particularly for children with autism spectrum disorders and is designed to be implemented by parents, teachers, and clinicians in everyday settings.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as PRT; emphasize the naturalistic and pivotal behavior targeting aspects.
In Context
- "The pivotal response training approach increased spontaneous communication attempts across all three participants." — autism intervention research
- "Parent training in pivotal response training techniques resulted in improved child engagement during play activities." — family-centered intervention study