Communication Over Compliance: Promoting Assent, Autonomy and Self-Advocacy

• By: Dr. Rebecca Gonzales, PhD, BCBA-D, LBA Ball State University
• July 12th, 2026
• AAC, applied behavior analysis, assent-based practice, autism services, autonomy, functional communication, person-centered care, self-advocacy, Summer 2026 Issue
• 689    0

Consider an individual participating in a learning activity who suddenly turns away, throws their markers on the floor, and places their head in their hands on the table. A compliance-focused approach might interpret these behaviors as task refusal and encourage the individual to continue the...

Beyond the Device: Teaching Meaningful, Spontaneous Communication with Speech-Generating Devices

• By: Megan Robinson Joy, PhD, BCBA Devereux
• July 9th, 2026
• AAC, augmentative communication, autism services, behavioral interventions, communication skills, functional communication, speech generating devices, Summer 2026 Issue
• 775    0

A key component of a high quality of life is the ability to clearly communicate one's needs and desires with others. Effective communication allows individuals to advocate for themselves, make choices within their environment, and express their thoughts and feelings. For autistic individuals,...