Peer-Mediated Pivotal Response Training

Peer-mediated Pivotal Response Training (PM-PRT) is a behavioral approach that incorporates instruction and practice opportunities on pivotal and socially significant skills (e.g., communication, playing with peers) for individuals diagnosed with developmental disorders in their everyday routines and environments. This chapter provides an overview of key components to successfully utilize the PM-PRT intervention with children in a variety of settings. The intervention includes a peer interventionist who may use selected strategies with a target student such as gaining attention, modeling, turn-taking, encouraging conversation, choice in tasks, and reinforcement of attempts during a play session. For example, the intervention may be implemented during recess and can be tailored to an individual’s target behaviors. The flexibility of PM-PRT allows it to be an effective and efficient intervention that promotes generalization across peers and settings.