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Positive reinforcement as treatment for problem behavior maintained by negative reinforcement.
Steven W Payne1, Claudia L Dozier
1UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
|October 12, 2013
Summary
Researchers explored using arbitrary reinforcers to reduce problem behavior maintained by negative reinforcement, especially when extinction is not feasible. This approach offers new treatment possibilities for challenging behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral science
- Applied behavior analysis
Background:
- Functional analyses are key to developing effective treatments for problem behavior.
- Recent research investigates using arbitrary reinforcers to decrease behavior maintained by negative reinforcement.
- This is particularly relevant when extinction procedures are not practical.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent research on using arbitrary reinforcers for problem behavior.
- To discuss the implications of this approach for understanding behavior.
- To explore practical applications and future research in this area.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies using arbitrary reinforcers.
- Analysis of research focusing on negative reinforcement and its alternatives.
- Discussion of theoretical mechanisms and practical considerations.
Main Results:
- Arbitrary reinforcers show potential in reducing problem behavior maintained by negative reinforcement.
- The effectiveness may depend on various factors, including the specific reinforcers used.
- This strategy can be valuable when extinction is not possible.
Conclusions:
- The use of arbitrary reinforcers is a promising avenue for treating behavior maintained by negative reinforcement.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and optimize practical applications.
- This approach has significant implications for clinical practice and behavioral intervention design.
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