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Updated: Jun 6, 2026

Three Laboratory Procedures for Assessing Different Manifestations of Impulsivity in Rats
Published on: March 17, 2019
Concurrent reinforcement schedules for problem behavior and appropriate behavior: experimental applications of the
Carrie S W Borrero1, Timothy R Vollmer, John C Borrero
1Kennedy Krieger Institute and The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA. Borrero@kennedykrieger.org
Abstract:
This study evaluated how children who exhibited functionally equivalent problem and appropriate behavior allocate responding to experimentally arranged reinforcer rates. Relative reinforcer rates were arranged on concurrent variable-interval schedules and effects on relative response rates were interpreted using the generalized matching equation. Results showed that relative rates of responding approximated relative rates of reinforcement. Finally, interventions for problem behavior were evaluated and differential reinforcement of alternative behavior and extinction procedures were implemented to increase appropriate behavior and decrease problem behavior. Practical considerations for the application of the generalized matching equation specific to severe problem behavior are discussed, including difficulties associated with defining a reinforced response, and obtaining steady state responding in clinical settings.
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