What is an establishing operation (EO) in the context of functional communication training?

In the context of functional communication training, an establishing operation (EO) refers to an event or environment that triggers a need for communication. This concept is crucial because it highlights how certain conditions can increase the value of a specific reinforcer, thereby motivating an individual to communicate.

For instance, if a child is experiencing hunger, the state of being hungry serves as an EO that enhances the significance of requesting food. Consequently, the child is more likely to engage in communication behaviors that have previously been reinforced through receiving food when they expressed their needs. Recognizing these operations allows practitioners to create conditions that promote effective communication, making it easier for individuals to express their needs or desires in a functional manner.

This understanding aids in developing effective intervention strategies that teach and encourage communication skills in individuals with autism, as it aligns training with their specific contexts and responses.