Establishing diurnal bladder control with the response restriction method: extended study on its effectiveness

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Psychology
• Developmental Disabilities Research
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Diurnal bladder control is a critical developmental milestone.
• Individuals with moderate to severe intellectual disabilities often face challenges in toilet training.
• Previous research supports behavioral interventions for bladder control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of response restriction in establishing diurnal bladder control.
• To extend previous findings on response restriction for toilet training.
• To evaluate the method's effectiveness in individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 40 participants with moderate and severe intellectual disabilities.
• Implementation of a response restriction procedure for toilet training.
• Measurement of toileting accidents before and after intervention.

Main Results:

• A significant decrease in the mean number of toileting accidents was observed post-intervention.
• A positive correlation was found between training hours and participants' chronological age.
• A positive relationship was identified between baseline accidents and training hours.

Conclusions:

• Response restriction is a valid and effective method for toilet training individuals with intellectual disabilities.
• The procedure avoids the need for aversive consequences, such as restitutional overcorrection.
• The training period required is relatively short, making it a practical intervention.