Relationship Developmental Intervention Paper

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines Autism Spectrum Disorders as, “a group of developmental disabilities that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges.” Speech language pathologists, along with other early intervention therapists and parents are able to help children with autism improve their communication and social skills. There are many different therapy techniques that speech language pathologist’s use in collaboration with parents and/or caregivers in order to help children with autism spectrum disorders lead healthier, happier, fuller lives. Two approaches that rely heavily on parent participation in the treatment of autism are Relationship Development Intervention (RDI) and Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT). RDI is a method developed in order to encourage and support parents to increase interactions with their children and therefore develop deeper relationships. PRT is an approach that requires the family to provide their child with unlimited opportunities for learning within the home or similar environment. Several studies have been conducted to support findings on both RDI and PRT and will be discussed below.
Relationship Development Intervention, as stated in Autism Spectrum Disorders: From Theory to Practice by Laura J. Hall, “aims to develop mindfulness by focusing on emotions, roles, ideas, perspectives, and levels of complexity, areas frequently difficult for individuals …show more content…
This can either be a positive or a negative. Parents and caregivers must commit to being the sole interventionists. For families that are looking for more hands on, in-home treatments, either approach would be appropriate. It’s important that treatment be taken seriously and implemented throughout the course of the day as daily activities present perfect opportunities for positive reinforcement and guided