Related Experiment Videos
A functional analysis of hair pulling
J T Rapp1, R G Miltenberger, T L Galensky
1Department of Psychology, North Dakota State University, Fargo 58105, USA.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
|October 8, 1999
Summary
This study investigated hair pulling in a young woman with disabilities, finding it maintained by self-stimulation. The behavior was linked to tactile sensations, suggesting automatic positive reinforcement.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Psychology
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Background:
- Understanding the function of repetitive behaviors is crucial for individuals with disabilities.
- Hair pulling can be a complex habit with various maintaining factors.
Observation:
- A 19-year-old woman with moderate mental retardation and cerebral palsy exhibited hair pulling and manipulation.
- A functional analysis indicated these behaviors occurred most frequently when she was alone.
Findings:
- Hair pulling was primarily maintained by automatic positive reinforcement, specifically digital-tactile stimulation.
- Providing access to pulled hair and using rubber gloves helped identify the sensory reinforcement.
Implications:
- Findings suggest interventions should focus on modifying the sensory consequences of hair pulling.
- Further research into automatically reinforced habit behaviors in individuals with disabilities is warranted.