Behavior Analysis Center for Autism (BACA) Comprehensive Practice Exam

The best approach to begin fading your prompt is to delay your verbal prompt by a few seconds to see if the student will respond on their own. This method allows the student time to process the information and encourages independent responding, which is essential for developing autonomy in their verbal communication.

When using this technique, you are helping the student transition from reliance on prompting to independent skills. By briefly delaying the prompt, you create an opportunity for the student to recall or initiate the response themselves, thereby reinforcing their learning and confidence. The scenario reflects a gradual shift toward independence, which is a crucial aspect of effective behavioral interventions.

In contrast, other strategies such as reducing the amount of time the student has to respond may inadvertently increase anxiety or pressure, making it more difficult for them to recall the information. Changing the verbal prompt entirely could lead to confusion and disrupt the learning process if the student is not yet ready for a different cue. Additionally, increasing the complexity of the response might overwhelm the student and hinder their ability to demonstrate the skills they have already learned. Thus, delaying the prompt represents the most effective method for supporting the student's growth while fostering independence.