Assingments % - Filling Out the DSM-5 Intervention Matrix for ASD Treatment Planning

For this assignment, you will fill out the DSM-5 Intervention Matrix Template [DOCX], as a foundation for your ASD treatment plan you will complete in the Weeks 7 and 9 assignments.
Download and save DSM-5 Intervention Matrix Template [DOCX] to your computer.
Review the Core Autism Symptoms and Behavior Analytic Intervention table in this template.
Define operationally one behavior that would fall under each category.You may review the Gilliam Autism Rating Scale-2 (GARS-2) Sample Results [DOCX] (or other resources) for some possibilities.
Behaviors can be something you are actually seeing as a clinician (remember to leave out all names and identifying information), or can be hypothetical behaviors or behaviors you find in a case study.
Make sure definition is observable and measurable, clearly stated, and includes examples and non-examples.
Review the peer-reviewed literature to find behavior analytic intervention that would be appropriate for that particular behavior.You might start your search by reviewing evidence-based practices in this week’s readings.
Week 5: DSM-5 Potential Intervention MatrixLinks to an external site. reading list.
Make sure the intervention is behavior analytic and has a strong scientific evidence base.
Review the literature to find at least two peer-reviewed journal articles that support that intervention. One must have been written in the last 5 years. (Contact instructor if you are unable to find this.)
Be sure to consider functions (hypothetically if needed) when reviewing the literature, if you are targeting a challenging behavior.
Fill out the remainder of the DSM-5 Intervention Matrix Template.Write an ABA intervention strategy you could use, and cite your chosen journal articles. (This should be 2-4 paragraphs.) Remember that you could combine several strategies (you don’t have to for purposes of this assignment), or you can use the same strategy for different behaviors (differences would be found as you develop your comprehensive plan).Note: This should be written below the table in the template, after the “ABA Intervention Strategy” header.
Overall, your assignment submission will be assessed based on the following criteria:
Define at least one behavior for each of the seven DSM-5 criteria: Deficits.
Identify at least one behavior analytic intervention for the defined behavior for each of the seven DSM-5 criteria: Deficits.
Describe an ABA intervention strategy that is supported by specific evidence from credible and relevant sources.
Convey purpose in a well-organized text, incorporating appropriate evidence and tone in grammatically sound sentences.
Apply APA style and formatting to scholarly writing.
Additional Requirements
Your assignment should also meet the following requirements:
Template: You must submit your completed DSM-5 Intervention Matrix Template [DOCX] for this assignment.
References: Cite a minimum of four sources of scholarly or professional evidence. At least one of the resources should be no more than five years old.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

This assignment involves filling out the DSM-5 Intervention Matrix Template to define behaviors related to ASD, identify appropriate interventions, and provide evidence-based support for those interventions. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you complete the task effectively:

Step 1: Download the DSM-5 Intervention Matrix Template

Locate and download the [DSM-5 Intervention Matrix Template DOCX] to your computer.
Familiarize yourself with the structure of the template, particularly the Core Autism Symptoms and Behavior Analytic Intervention table.

Step 2: Define Operational Behaviors for Each DSM-5 Criteria

For each of the seven DSM-5 deficits, define one specific behavior:

Use the GARS-2 Sample Results or other case studies for inspiration.
Ensure your definitions are operational:
- Observable: Focus on actions you can see.
- Measurable: Include criteria such as frequency, duration, or intensity.
- Clear: Provide examples and non-examples to avoid ambiguity.

Example:

Deficits in Social-Emotional Reciprocity: A child does not respond to greetings, such as “Hi,” from peers but instead looks away or remains silent.
- Example: The child does not respond when a teacher asks, “How are you?” in a group setting.
- Non-Example: The child responds with, “I’m fine,” even if the answer is brief.

Repeat this process for all seven categories.

Step 3: Identify Behavior Analytic Interventions

For each behavior:

Search the literature for evidence-based ABA interventions. Use databases like PubMed, PsycINFO, or Google Scholar.
Choose interventions that are:
- Grounded in behavior analysis (e.g., discrete trial training, naturalistic teaching strategies).
- Supported by strong scientific evidence.
Cite at least two peer-reviewed journal articles per intervention, ensuring one is from the last five years.

Example for Deficits in Social-Emotional Reciprocity:

Intervention: Naturalistic Teaching Strategies (NTS) to encourage reciprocal communication during play.
- Supporting Article: Example articles could include research on the effectiveness of NTS for improving verbal responses in children with ASD.

Step 4: Write the ABA Intervention Strategy

Below the table in the template, compose a 2–4 paragraph explanation of your intervention strategy. Include:

Overview: Summarize the intervention(s) and how they address the behavior(s).
Scientific Evidence: Reference the peer-reviewed studies you found, explaining how they support your strategy.
Hypothetical Functions: Address the possible functions of the behavior (e.g., attention, escape, sensory stimulation) and how the intervention aligns with these functions.

Example:

To address deficits in social-emotional reciprocity, the intervention will use Naturalistic Teaching Strategies (NTS) during playtime to encourage verbal responses to greetings. NTS involves embedding learning opportunities into naturally occurring activities, such as asking, “How are you?” during snack time or while playing games. Smith et al. (2020) found that NTS significantly improved verbal reciprocity in children with ASD within two months. This strategy will focus on attention as the hypothesized function of the behavior.

Step 5: Complete the Matrix

Fill out the matrix with your operational behavior definitions, corresponding interventions, and citations. Double-check for:

Clarity: Ensure definitions and interventions are easy to follow.
APA formatting: Properly format all in-text citations and references.

Step 6: Apply APA Style and Finalize References

Add at least four scholarly sources to your reference list, formatted in APA style.
Include peer-reviewed journal articles and reputable books or resources.

Step 7: Review and Submit

Proofread your completed template for grammatical errors and organization.
Submit the document per your instructor’s instructions.

Final Tip:

By clearly defining behaviors, supporting your interventions with credible evidence, and aligning everything with ABA principles, you’ll create a strong foundation for the Week 7 and 9 treatment plans.