An Effective Request is a statement intended to direct an individual to perform a behavior that teaches and reinforces the “keystone” social skill of compliance (i.e. following directions).
An Effective Request is delivered by making a statement, and then following-through with Behavior SpecificPraise for compliance or with an alternative consequence for non-compliance.
Characteristics of an Effective Request
Few in number
Delivered in a polite and pleasant manner
Worded as statements rather than questions
Well-timed
Consistent with the individual’s knowledge, skill and ability
Specific
Stated as a “start up” request rather than a “stop” request
Followed with praise
Steps for Making an Effective Request
Decide what needs to be done.
Make a statement directing individual to do what needs to be done.
Uses the sentence stem, “(Name), please ______.”
Incorporates the characteristics of an effective Request.
Follow-through
Respond with Behavior Specific Praise for compliance to the Request
OR
Provide an alternative consequence for non-compliance
Examples:
“Mary, please set the table.” (She starts setting the table.) “Mary, nice job following directions.”
(To the whole group), “Everyone, please go in and take a seat.” (Everyone is seated.) “Good job following directions.”
“Alex, please get your laundry.” (He does not get his laundry, so the staff member uses a consequence for non-compliance e.g. praises others while withdrawing attention from Alex).