Descriptive and experimental analyses of potential precursors to problem behavior
Carrie S W Borrero1, John C Borrero
1Spectrum Center, Inc, USA. Borrero@kennedykrieger.org
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
|May 13, 2008
Summary
This study identified early signs (precursors) of severe problem behavior in individuals with autism. These precursors reliably predict and share functions with problem behavior, aiding in early intervention.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Science
- Autism Spectrum Disorder Research
- Applied Behavior Analysis
Background:
- Understanding precursors to problem behavior is crucial for effective intervention in autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
- Previous research has explored the relationship between problem behavior and its antecedents, but quantitative methods for precursor identification require further development.
- Descriptive assessment and functional analysis are key tools in analyzing behavior patterns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify precursors to severe problem behavior in individuals with autism using descriptive observations.
- To quantitatively analyze the temporal relationship between precursors and problem behavior using lag-sequential analysis.
- To determine the operant functions of both problem behavior and identified precursors through functional analysis.
Main Methods:
- Descriptive observations of severe problem behavior were conducted for two individuals with autism.
- Comparative probability and lag-sequential analyses were employed to identify potential precursors.
- Functional analyses were performed separately on problem behavior and precursors to ascertain their operant functions.
Main Results:
- Lag-sequential analyses revealed a significant increase in precursor probability immediately preceding problem behavior.
- Problem behavior probability was highest in the intervals immediately following the identified precursor.
- Functional analyses indicated that both problem behavior and its precursors served the same operant functions.
Conclusions:
- The study successfully replicated prior findings on the relationship between problem behavior and precursors.
- A quantitative method for identifying precursors to severe problem behavior was illustrated, extending previous research.
- The findings support the utility of precursor analysis in understanding and potentially intervening in problem behavior in autism.
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