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Topographical and functional properties of precursors to severe problem behavior
1University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
|January 6, 2012
Summary
This study analyzed precursors to severe problem behavior in 34 subjects. Unintelligible vocalization frequently preceded aggression and property destruction, while self-directed movement preceded self-injurious behavior.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Precursors to severe problem behavior are critical indicators for intervention.
- Understanding these precursors aids in developing effective behavior management strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify topographical and functional characteristics of precursors to severe problem behavior.
- To analyze common precursor behaviors across different types of severe problem behavior.
Main Methods:
- Literature search of 17 articles.
- Analysis of data from 34 subjects exhibiting precursor behaviors.
- Examination of topographical and functional characteristics of precursors.
Main Results:
- Unintelligible vocalization was the most common precursor to aggression (27%) and property destruction (29%).
- Self- or nondirected movement was the most common precursor to self-injurious behavior (SIB) (32%).
- Unintelligible vocalization and object-directed movement were common precursors to behavior maintained by social-positive reinforcement (27% each).
Conclusions:
- Specific precursor behaviors are associated with different types of severe problem behavior.
- Identifying common precursors can inform early intervention and prevention efforts.
- Further research is needed to explore precursors for behavior maintained by automatic reinforcement.
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