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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
PubMed
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.

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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.

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  • Further research into automatically reinforced habit behaviors in individuals with disabilities is warranted.