For parents, caregivers, and teachers, the process of assessment often is the first step in behavior analysis and intervention. One of the skills assessments I have studied is the Verbal Milestone Assessment and Placement Program (VB-MAPP). Based on Skinner’s analysis of language, VB-MAPP was designed to assess language development. Skinner proposed that language is a learned behavior. VB-MAPP is a criterion-based reference often used with learners that present language development disabilities that are not naturally acquiring language in their natural environment.
At its core, the VB-MAPP combines principles of applied behavior analysis with Skinner’s analysis of verbal behavior. Usually, it is used mainly for autistic children and assess the language skills of a child in the context of certain objectives. The reason why it is preferred is because of its ability to determine the baseline level of a child’s verbal and related skills. Based on my studies and observations, the VB-MAPP comes in three levels used for different age groups; levels 1, 2, and 3. Level 1 is between 0 to 18 months, level 2 between 28 to 30 months and level 4 between 30-48 months (Lorah, Tincani & Parnell, 2019).
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Based on the fact that the skills being assessed were language-oriented, the assessment was appropriate for the population of children with an autistic spectrum disorder. If the child is assessed and has already attained particular language skills based on observation, it becomes unnecessary to test that level. However, if unsure of attainment of skills, more testing has to be done using the VB-MAPP. Information collected from this skill assessment at different levels is used to choose the right targets and objectives for intervention. For instance, it can be used to recommend procedure to both parents and caregivers on how to decrease aggressive behavior among others that impede learning in autistic children.
Reference
Lorah, E. R., Tincani, M., & Parnell, A. (2019). Verbal behavior intervention in autism spectrum disorders.
