Promoting Language for Learners with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Promoting Language for Learners with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Verbal Behavior Guide for Practitioners introduces the core principles of verbal behavior and provides practical, evidence-based strategies for teaching language skills to children with autism in applied settings.

The book opens with a section that orients the reader to a functional approach to language, best practices for assessing verbal repertoires, and common models for arranging language-training environments. The second section focuses on teaching critical verbal operants and derived language skills. The final section addresses professional matters relevant to practitioners, including the importance of basic and translational research in verbal behavior, considerations related to diversity, and best practices for interdisciplinary collaboration.

Grounded in the science of behavior analysis and aligned with Skinner’s (1957) analysis of verbal behavior, this book equips professionals with tools to assess language, design effective teaching environments, and build essential repertoires like manding, tacting, and conversation skills. Intended for professionals and students alike, this text is broad enough to support graduate-level instruction and specific enough to serve as a valuable reference for practicing clinicians.

Jason C. Vladescu, PhD, BCBA-D, is a professor and the founding chair of the ABA Program at SUNY Downstate, Editor-in-Chief of Behavior Analysis in Practice, and co-founder of The Capstone Center.

April N. Kisamore, PhD, BCBA-D, is an associate professor and director of the ABA Programs at Hunter College. She co-founded The Capstone Center and publishes on verbal behavior, skill acquisition, and parent training.