Coping with Stress Through Picture Rehearsal: A How to Manual for Working with Individuals with Autism and Developmental Disabilities

Picture rehearsal is an instructional strategy that uses repeated practice of a sequence of behaviors by presenting the sequence to the individual in the form of pictures and accompanying script.

This procedure combines principles of learning theory and the technology of visual supports into a personalized program that has widespread application. The use of picture rehearsal allows the learner to experience repeated practice of successful adaptive behavior with immediate reinforcement each time the program is implemented. The long-term goals of picture rehearsal are: -to enable the individual to acquire a needed skill or response, -to recognize when and where to use it, and ultimately to use it independently in the appropriate situations.

Through picture rehearsal, the development of self-control and the acquisition of social skills are closely interwoven. Being taught such skills can enhance the quality of life for the individual with autism by expanding his social relationships.